2013 MLB Draft: Miami Marlins draft Colin Moran sixth overall

The Miami Marlins followed through on their stated desire to take a college hitter, drafting Colin Moran with the sixth overall pick in the 2013 MLB Draft. Moran offers a plus-plus tool and plate discipline combination, along with quality defense at the hot corner.

After hitting .314/.379/.503 in the Cape Code League last summer, Moran built on that performance by batting .348/.478/.557 this year for North Carolina.

Many mock drafts predicted that the Cleveland Indians would take Moran just before Miami, but instead the Indians opted for high school outfielder Clint Frazier. Traditional roles seemingly reversed, as the team known for taking college players selected a toolsy prep player, while the Marlins selected a college position player for the first time in 17 years.

While Moran lacks the incredible raw power of some of his peers in the college ranks, he still projects to hit plenty of home runs.

#Marlins Stan Meek said first round pick Colin Moran reminds him of Wade Boggs. Left handed bat and "hitter with power."

— Manny Navarro (@Manny_Navarro) June 7, 2013

Moran's greatest weakness is his below-average speed, but it shouldn't affect his ability to stick at third base professionally. He makes strong, accurate throws, and fields the ball well.

An under-appreciated, but important bit of information about Colin Moran is his date of birth. Born in October of 1992, Moran is one of the youngest college players in the draft.

The Miami Marlins have successfully drafted an excellent college bat, one who will rank as one of the top prospects in their minor league system when he signs. Expect Moran to rise quickly to the majors, thanks to his polished game and advanced plate approach.