The 2021 MLB Draft will begin on July 11th, 2021. We take a look at Tyler McDonough, a second baseman for NC State who has been a solid contributor for the Wolfpack over the past four years.
Make sure to check out all of our other MLB Draft Profiles.
Tyler McDonough, Outfielder, North Carolina State University
Height: 5’10”
Weight: 180
Age: 22
Bats: Switch
Throws: Right
Stats: 55 G, 21 2B, 15 HR, 45 RBI, .339 AVG, 79 H
Scouting Grades
Hit: 50
Power: 45
Run: 55
Field: 55
Throw: 50
McDonough arrived at NC State as a catcher but has spent most of his college career in the outfield. During his time with the Wolfpack, he has been a solid defender and handles the strike zone well in the box. The Ohio native has hit over .300 in every season of his college career and has good speed on the bases. His future position is uncertain, but he is projected to be a solid contributor in the majors.
On the 13th pitch of the at-bat, Tyler McDonough goes deep for @NCStateBaseball. He’d fouled off NINE pitches.
And he extended his on-base streak to 49 games.
We’re rolling on @accnetwork!pic.twitter.com/DnV8QJG0is
— Mike Monaco (@MikeMonaco_) April 25, 2021
Strengths
During college, McDonough has gained attention due to his bat. The twenty-two-year-old consistently puts the baseball on the barrel of the bat from both sides of the plate. He has shown the ability to drive the ball into gaps and has good plate discipline. During his college career, McDonough has walked nearly as many times as he struck out. While not a perfect product, he has a lot of positive tools that could translate well to the next level.
Additionally, McDonough is a threat on the basepaths. In his collegiate career, he has stolen 30 bags, including 13 in 2021. His ability to get on base will be attractive to many teams and adds value to his overall game.
Weaknesses
In the minors, McDonough will need to improve his power. In college, he has only hit more than five home runs in a season once. He is a player who gets overlooked because of his size, but has had an impressive junior season. While he may not be picked in the top 25, McDonough has the tools to carve out an important role on a major league team.
Player comparison: Brock Holt
The Wolfpack outfielder has drawn comparisons to super-utility specialist Brock Holt. Like the 2018 World Series Champion, McDonough can shuttle between the outfield and third base. He also has a grinder mentality which has helped Holt have a successful career. Along with great instincts, his occasional power has also reminded scouts of Adam Eaton.
Draft Projection: Second or Third Round pick
A year ago, McDonough was expected to be selected in the ninth round before the MLB Draft was shortened. In 2021 his stock has risen as he has added power to his game. The 22-year-old may not be the highest-rated prospect in the draft, but there is a lot to like. He is expected to be selected on the second day of the draft and could carve out a role on a major league team.
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Main Image Credit: via GoPack.com
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