The 2022 MLB Draft will begin on July 17, 2022. We take a look at Dylan Lesko, a well-regarded arm out of Buford High School. While he did commit to Vanderbilt, the 18-year-old expects to head straight for the big leagues. Although his Tommy John procedure will delay the drafting process, many presume Lesko to be the first pitcher off the board.
Make sure to check out all of our other MLB Draft Profiles.
Dylan Lesko, RHP, Buford High School (Georgia)
Height: 6’3″
Weight: 195 lbs.
DOB: 9/27/2003
Bats: Right
Throws: Right
Scouting Grades
Fastball: 60
Curveball: 55
Changeup: 70
Control: 55
Overall: 55
Lesko has quite the arm and while his stats are hard to come by, his accolades show it all. His three-slot arsenal has gotten the youngster pretty far in the business as well as several achievements. In the 2021 High School Showdown, Lesko was awarded the Most Valuable Pitcher of the Tournament. In addition, the right-hander was selected for the 2021 Perfect Game All-American Classic. While those achievements are truly noteworthy, his most prized accolade is the label of Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year.
Strengths
While Lesko practices just three pitches, his repertoire is rather potent. First and foremost, a fastball ranging from 92-95 mph and topping at 97. In several instances, the fastball has a lively jolt that he augments to put away his opponents. Then comes the changeup, which puts him above all other pitchers in the draft. A low 80s breaking ball, which comes across as his greatest asset. The final piece of his weaponry presents an upper-70s curveball that is relatively effective but can use some repairs.
Lesko has great length and size which he incorporates into his delivery. With a broad 6-foot-3 frame weighing in at 195 pounds, the right-hander is simply the perfect size. A serene and patient presence on the mound, Lesko fares no issue to bang out his pitches. In addition, the young hurler has solid control which is also an upside to his game.
Weaknesses
There aren’t too many eye-opening defects in Lesko’s game. Although, his health may be a concern in the long run. As he underwent Tommy John surgery in April, the pitching prodigy will be sidelined for a while. However, the Tommy John procedure has a ballooned success rate and is known to improve the arm. If all goes well, Lesko’s arm will be flawless and maybe even better than before.
Pro Comparison: Luis Castillo
It’s hard to put a pin on high school prospects, but Castillo is the ideal comparison to the teenage arm. A similar build with two alike weapons in their arsenal. The four-seam and the changeup, both relay harm to their opponents. Castillo, whose four-seam sits at 95 mph and a changeup clocking at 87 mph, is fairly identical to Lesko’s repertoire.
Draft Projection: Cincinnati Reds, Round 1, Pick 18
While up and coming Hunter Greene has supplied a spark to the Reds rotation, Cincinnati is in dire need of support. Thankfully, Lesko will most likely be around at the 18th pick. While Reds GM Nick Krall may decide on North Allegheny shortstop, Cole Young, Krall should take Lesko into account. Whether Cincinnati or not, the 18-year-old is an assured first-rounder.
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