2014 MLB Draft Profile: Grayson Greiner, C, University of South Carolina

Summary

The one question surround Grayson Greiner, as a ball player, heading into the 2014 college season was whether or not his bat would come around. In his freshman and sophomore years at South Carolina he posted an OPS in the 700s each year. This year, however, he's made significant improvement and currently has a .895 OPS in 58 games. His home run total has doubled this year, and he continues to show a good eye at the plate. The one knock offensively against him is that his swing is long and may not transfer to the professional level well.

Behind the plate he's got everything you want in a catcher: a strong arm, agility and outstanding receiving skills. The one knock against him has nothing to do with ability or talent behind the plate. It has to do with the physical attribute known as height. He's a solid 6'5" which is few inches taller than teams prefer.

His list of awards and accomplishments are long.

He was named: to the USA Baseball's Golden Spikes Award Watch List; one of 15 semifinalists for the 2014 Johnny Bench Awards; 2013-14 USC Co-Male Student Athlete of the year alongside Gamecock football/basketball (and recent NFL draftee) Bruce Ellington; SEC All Defensive Team; and the 2014 Capital One Academic All-America Second Team.

He was also praised for his handling of the 2013 USA Collegiate National Team, which featured the likes of: Carlos Rodon; Tyler Beede; Brandon Finnegan, Daniel Mengden and others that will be drafted in the early rounds of the draft.

Greiner is a well rounded catcher: his defense is outstanding; his bat is improving; and the only glaring knock against him is his unconventional height for a catcher.

Floor

Backup major league catcher

Ceiling

Starter. How much his bat improves will determine whether he's a backup or starting catcher.

Projected Draft Round

Late first, second or third round.

Will He Sign?

He should.

Video