:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46463048/GettyImages-450494120.0.jpg)
The one position that really seems to be deeper in this year's draft is shortstop, with the top high school prospect being a potential choice at #1 by the Diamondbacks. He's not the safest pick available there (it's pretty rare that a high school prospect of any kind would be), but he may have the most upside from both a team and fantasy standpoint. Let's take a look at Florida high schooler Brendan Rodgers.
The first thing that stood out to me when I started reviewing the profile for Rodgers was where he's actually from. I live out in California, but had I chosen to follow a job I previously had to its' new location, it would have been in Lake Mary, Florida, where Rodgers attended Lake Mary High School. Across his two seasons on the varsity team he's hit .378/.471/.804 with 16 home runs and 9 stolen bases over 47 games. He's also been a fairly well known name on the travel circuit for a few years now, so it's not like he's come out of nowhere.
The scouting report on Rodgers makes it fairly clear why he's in the running for the top pick this year. He gets rave reviews about his abilities at the plate, and has the potential to be a top five fantasy shortstop if he reaches his ceiling. His hit tool is generally rated as potentially above-average to plus, capable of providing high batting averages on a regular basis. His bat speed is considered elite, and helps him generate power as well. With above-average raw power, it's possible that Rodgers can provide 20-25 home runs per season.
His speed is considered generally average, which could lead to some stolen bases but not likely a ton. As he matures it's always possible he slows down as well, which would also impact his defensive outlook. A shortstop right now, there are mixed reports on whether he will be able to stay at the position long term, but it doesn't sound like it is out of the question at all. He's considered an extremely athletic prospect, and also gets glowing reviews on his makeup and work ethic.
Overall, Rodgers is one of the strongest fantasy prospects in this year's draft, as he can potentially provide a .280 batting average with 20+ home runs while qualifying at shortstop. I was asked earlier about whether I prefer Rodgers or Vanderbilt SS Dansby Swanson, and I think for me the answer is Rodgers. There's just a little more upside from a fantasy perspective with Rodgers, and more than balances out the risk that comes from being a high school draftee for me.