The SF Giants select power-hitting outfielder out of FSU with the 13th overall pick

With the 13th overall pick, the SF Giants selected power-hitting outfielder James Tibbs III out of Florida State University. That wrapped up their work for the first day of the draft as they only held one pick through the first two rounds.

The SF Giants select power-hitting outfielder out of FSU with the 13th overall pick

The Giants will not pick again until the fourth round. This is the big reason why we explained that they cannot miss with their first-round pick. It will be years before we truly know how well Sunday night's pick turns out.

For the time being, the Giants have added a power bat in Tibbs III. He becomes the first player the Giants have selected out of Florida State University with a first-round pick since Buster Posey in 2008.

Tibbs III just completed a stellar campaign in 2024. He slashed .363/.488/.777 with 28 home runs, 95 RBI, and 75 runs in 320 plate appearances. In each of his three college seasons, the left-handed bat showed improved control of the strike zone by keeping his walk rate constant while reducing his strikeout rate. As a freshman, he struck out 64 times in 202 plate appearances in 2022 compared to just 37 times in 320 plate appearances this year.

The 21-year-old's best quality is his bat. Both his hit tool and power rate as above-average traits with the latter being what makes him such an intriguing prospect. He covers the inside part of the plate well with an uppercut swing that allows him to lift and pull the ball. Though, he has power to all fields, but pulling the ball in the air against pro pitching will be what separates him from the rest of the group at the next level:

He has some swing-and-miss inherent with his swing, especially in the upper half of the zone. However, the lefty bat has been able to limit his strikeout rate due to good swing decisions. He does not chase out of the zone often and takes advantage of fastballs.

Tibbs III played exlcusively in right field in 2024. However, he is a below-average runner with an average arm, making it likely that he shifts over to left field as a pro. He does have some experience at first base as well.

The 13th overall pick carries a slot value of $5,272,300. In nearly every case, draft picks within the first 10 rounds will sign. More than likely, the Giants have a framework for what type of bonus it will take to sign Tibbs III. That will be figured it soon enough, but for the time being, the Giants have added a power bat to the organization.