SF Giants: 5 Potential First-Round Selections to Watch

SF Giants Way-Too-Early 2021 MLB Draft Targets:
4. Drew Gray, LHP, IMG Academy (Arkansas Commit)

Of all the players on this list, Drew Gray is easily the least likely to go in the first round of this year’s draft. However, if the Giants prioritize upside and potentially target a volatile prep arm, Gray could emerge as an obvious fit. Originally from Illinois, Gray now attends the prestigious IMG Academy in Florida and has already begun moving up draft boards this spring.

A two-way player, Gray is a standout athlete with a low-to-mid 90s fastball and feel for an old-fashioned curveball. Some believe he is the best two-way player in this year’s prep class. His lanky 6’3” frame generates a smooth left-handed swing with strong contact ability and the athleticism to play in the outfield. Still, he seems like the kind of pitcher the Giants have targetted over the past couple of drafts.

Since he has yet to commit himself to pitching fully, Gray seems like one of the most shapable prospects in this year’s class. He is also one of the youngest players with a chance to go towards the top of the draft. The Giants have prioritized athleticism, projectability, and youth in recent history. Gray checks all of these boxes. It would be quite a risk to select him in the first round, but he probably will not make it to the Giants in the second round. If they can dream on his upside, they might be able to come to a substantially below-slot agreement that gives them the flexibility they want to make another splash in later rounds.