In the second round of the 2021 MLB Draft, the Boston Red Sox added another highly-rated prospect. With the 40th overall pick, the Red Sox selected Jud Fabian. The Florida native was seen as a top-four pick before the college season began but saw his stock fall. As a Junior, Fabian struggled with his plate discipline. In the second round, Boston still saw potential and added him to their draft haul.
As a member of the Florid Gators, Fabian hit .249 in 132 games. The 20-year-old also hit 32 home runs, including a career-high 20 in 2021. Although Fabian’s strikeout rate increased this past season, he was still a solid run producer leading up to the draft. While Fabian showed some power in college, he was also impressive in the field.
Throughout the 2021 season, the Florida product was a human highlight reel in the outfield. Fabian is a plus defender, and some scouts saw him as one of the best defenders in the draft. He also has excellent defensive instincts and the ability to read the ball off of the bat. He should have no issues in the outfield at the major league level, where his defense will be a strength.
Jud Fabian to the Red Sox in the 2nd round.
Big upside. Homered twice off Jack Leiter in a span of two ABs earlier this year.pic.twitter.com/Sr4gjKwoac
— Mike Monaco (@MikeMonaco_) July 12, 2021
In the minors, Fabian will need to improve his approach at the plate. During his junior season, he struck out 79 times in 225 at-bats. He was, however, able to make adjustments and removed a leg kick. As a result, his strikeout rate dipped below 25 percent during his final 27 games. The 20-year-old was one of the youngest college players and should improve with more experience.
Fabian was Held in High Regard
Additionally, in recent years the Red Sox have a good track record of developing hitters. Despite Fabian’s struggles, he still has a high upside. He was also still highly rated and seen as the 41st-best available player in the draft. With his selection, the Red Sox were able to add another player in the top 50 to the farm system.
Although Fabian is far from a finished prospect, his potential is intriguing. The 20-year-old is already an elite defender and makes an impact with his bat. Once he signs with Boston, Fabian will be a player for fans to keep an eye on in a talented farm system.
Check us out on our socials:
Twitter: @PTSTNews and @TalkPrimeTime
Facebook Page: Prime Time Sports Talk
Join our Facebook Group: Prime Time Sports Talk
Instagram: @ptsportstalk
Follow Jamie Gatlin On Twitter @JamieGatlin17
Main Image Credit:
Embed from Getty Images
