San Francisco Giants: 2019 MLB Draft Preview, Part 3

The Faller: OF Hunter Bishop, Arizona State

Hunter Bishop had not previously been mentioned in connection with the San Francisco Giants as most expected him to go somewhere between No. 7 and No. 9 overall.

However, with uncertainty surrounding the Texas Rangers at No. 8 overall, and an increased likelihood that they select a prep player, there’s a chance that Bishop could fall.

Bishop’s tools have been touted since his high school days, but he struggled with consistency over his first two seasons at Arizona State. After reworking his batting stance in the Cape Cod League last summer, he has exploded for a .356/.482/.792 line and 26 home runs this spring.

His profile is a scout’s dream. With a 6’5″, 210-pound frame he projects 60 to 70-grade raw power, while also clocking run times that get 60 grades from some scouts. He is currently playing center field and some feel he can stick there long-term. Even if he slides to a corner spot, his athleticism and average arm should make for an above-average defender.

The questions with Bishop revolve around his hit tool. He struck out in over 30 percent of his plate appearances as a sophomore and struggled to control the strike zone. He has made significant strides this season, but his track record is still thin.

If Bishop is available when the Giants are on the clock, it will be a good gauge of how the new regime will value risk and ceiling. UNLV shortstop Bryson Stott would be the safer selection, but Bishop has more star potential. From what we know about new Giants’ headman Farhan Zaidi, tools will drive the picks, giving Bishop the edge.