Reds select UCLA shortstop Matt McLain No. 17 overall

With the 17th pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, the Cincinnati Reds selected Matt McLain, a shortstop out of UCLA.

Previously drafted in the first round of the 2018 draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks, McLain opted not to sign and followed through on his enrolment to UCLA. Between his sophomore and junior seasons, McLain hit .349 with 12 homers and 10 steals over 60 games.

Bio

Age: 21
Position: SS
Height/Weight: 5-foot-11, 180 lbs
Bats/Throws: R/R
School: UCLA
Pick value (#17): $3,609,700

Tools

• Very good bat-to-ball skills
• Above-average runner
• Strong arm

Why fans will love this player

• Improved power with age
• Ability to stick at shortstop with continued work on defense
• Hit stride during wooden-bat Cape Cod League
• Could fill super-utility role

Things he'll need to overcome

• Streakiness
• Might need to move off shortstop but could manage third base or outfield

Take a look ...

(Video source: The Prospect Pipeline)