Josh Elander, Junior, Catcher, TCU
Overview:
Josh Elander is one of the best catcher prospects eligible for the 2012 MLB Draft. At TCU the 37th round draft pick has emerged as a very consistent hitter. As a freshman in 2010 he batted .356. In 2011 he started 37 games behind the plate and 11 as the designated hitter and hit .333 with five home runs. Elander has more power at the plate than his numbers would indicate and he could certainly be a power hitter sooner or later. Elander is also deceptively quick, swiping nine bases in 2011 without getting caught.
Final Projection:
The key for Elander’s draft prospects will be his play behind the plate. His bat is consistent enough to be a first round draft pick, but many are not sold on his leadership and skills as a catcher. He has more time with the Horned Frogs to prove that he is good enough defensively to be able to be the backstop for a professional team.
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