Red Sox Snag Jon Denney with Pick Number 81
Many people believed that Jon Denney could go early in the first round, including fellow writer, Conor and yours truly. But Denney slipped all the way into the third round and fell into the Red Sox’ lap with the 81st pick.
Jul 4, 2011; Boston, MA, USA; A general view during a flyover past a large American flag draped over the green monster prior to a game between the Boston Red Sox and the Toronto Blue Jays at Fenway Park. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Jon Denney’s game is built around his offensive potential. Plain and simple, Denney gets it done with the bat. Denney has been described as having tape measure power to compliment a good hit tool as well. Over at minorleagueball Denney’s swing is regarded as better than Wil Myers’ was at that same age. Denney hit .462 in his senior season with 46 RBI, despite being walked 40 times on the year.
Denney’s defensive skills have been slotted in anywhere from fringy to above-average. He has the tools to be an excellent receiving catcher, and is able to handle just about anything from behind the plate.
Denney probably dropped due to signability concerns, but with the likelihood that Boston’s first and second round picks sign slightly below slot, the Sox should be able to sign Denney quickly and get him in the system. It remains to be seen whether Denney will stick behind the plate, but chances are he is getting drafted largely for his bat.
If they can sign him, the Sox will have pulled off a major steal, garnering a first round talent in the early third round.