Perhaps shockingly, Vanderbilt’s Austin Martin fell to the Toronto Blue Jays at No. 5 in the MLB Draft––joining a system that already features Bo Bichette, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., and Cavan Biggio.
The 21-year-old from Florida has been compared to Anthony Rendon by some scouts and will be on the fast track to the big leagues. He also has been compared to Mookie Betts, largely to his ability to play both the infield and outfield at a proficient level.
The Blue Jays had a chance to get the best player available and they pounced on it.
Martin was a utility player for Vanderbilt and has spent time at first, second, third, and in center over the last three seasons. Through 140 career games, he slashed .368/.474/.532 with an OPS of 1.007, as well as 85 walks to just 82 strikeouts in 665 plate appearances.
His power is expected to improve, according to scouts, and will make an impact within a couple of years.
The Blue Jays couldn’t have asked for a better pick at fifth overall and selected arguably the best player in the draft.
