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Summary
The 6'1", 185-pound shortstop has some intriguing tools, beginning with his bat speed. The first thing that pops out when watching Demeritte at the plate is his above-average bat speed, which makes up for the poor hand placement during his back swing. To go along with his above-average bat speed, he have a slightly above-average arm and some raw power potential.
Demeritte is a solid-not-spectacular athlete who is unlikely to stick at shortstop as he progresses through pro ball. Some think second is a possibility, while most people think he ends up at the hot corner, where he has a good enough arm to play. If he never develops power, which is still a possibility, second is probably where his future lies.
Major League Floor
Pinch-hitter.
Major League Ceiling
His offensive potential is probably somewhere close to Mike Moustakas, with lesser defense.
Projected Draft Round
He's universally projected to go in the second round. It wouldn't shock me if he went late-first or early-third, but mid-second round is where everyone has him slotted. He's a legitimate candidate to be the Astros second pick, as I think they'll go the route of HSer with upside.
College Commitment: South Carolina, Will He Sign?
I think he'll sign for second round money – maybe slightly overslot.
Bibliography
This Georgia high school infielder played well over the summer, both for the East Cobb Braves as well as in showcases like the Perfect Game National and East Coast Pro Showcase, and it's carried over into his senior year.
Lean and athletic, there's some room for Demeritte to add strength to his frame. He makes consistent contact with good bat speed, driving gaps right now, but with the chance to have some pop in the future. He's played both second and third, but many feel he's best suited at the hot corner, where his hands, range and arm all fit well.
He's committed to the University of South Carolina, but a team that likes him enough may draft him away from the Gamecocks.