The 2021 MLB Draft will begin on July 11, 2021. We take a look at the University of Arizona Commit Wes Kath, one of the best high school bats who could go early in the draft.
Make sure to check out all of our other MLB Draft Profiles.
Wes Kath, Third Baseman, Desert Mountain High School (AZ)
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 200 lbs.
Age: 18
Bats: Left
Throws: Right
2021: .486 AVG, 22 RBI’s, 35 Hits, 34 Runs
Scouting Grades
Hit: 45
Power: 45
Run: 45
Field: 50
Throw:60
Kath was an unknown prospect to most scouts entering last summer. Over the past year, however, he has emerged as one of the top high school players in Arizona. The Scottsdale native swung the bat well at several events, including the World Wood Bat Association World Championship and Area Code Games. The eighteen-year-old has spent most of his high school career at shortstop but is projected to play third at the next level.
😳OH. MY. What a shot.
Wes Kath (@wesxkath) BLASTS a solo home run to right for the 6-1 lead in the 5A State Championship Game. The LHH’s second hit in what’s likely the last AB of his storied HS career. #FiveToolPower #DudeAlert@DMWolvesBball (AZ) 2021 · @ASU_Baseball signee pic.twitter.com/AnaNHzqybd
— Five Tool Arizona (@FiveToolAZ) May 19, 2021
Strengths
The University of Arizona commit has gained attention with his hitting ability. Last summer, he attacked the ball and was aggressive at the plate. Kath’s quick hands allow him to generate contact, and he is projected to hit for more power as he gets older. In 2020, Kath had a wide stance but shortened it, which has helped him take his offense to another level.
In the field, Kath has shown good hands and a strong arm. While he prefers shortstop, his athleticism should allow him to succeed at third. Coming into the 2021 season, he worked on his mobility with the draft approaching. Kath does not have many question marks to his game, but one of them is at what position he will end up.
Weaknesses
While Kath has improved his defense, it is also his biggest weakness. Many scouts think he will lack the range to play up the middle as he gets older. He also needs to be set before he throws but should be successful at third. Despite those question marks, Kath is not expected to be a liability in the field.
Pro Comparison: Matt Carpenter
Kath has drawn some comparisons to the Cardinals’ third baseman. The two have similar swings, and Carpenter has some power to his game. Kath projects to hit for a solid average in the majors with 20-plus home run power. From 2013- 2018 Carpenter had similar numbers before struggling the past three years. However, Kath has the athleticism to be a better defender at third as Carpenter has moved around the diamond.
Draft Projection: Second-Round pick
Very few players have seen their draft stock rise as quickly as Kath. There is a ton of upside with the Desert Mountain product who has come into his own over the past year. He has been able to follow up an impressive summer with an even better senior season. Most mock drafts have him going either late in the first round or in the second. Two teams that have been connected to the talented infielder are the Miami Marlins and Chicago White Sox.
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Main Image Credit: via Baseball Prospect Journal
