2016 MLB Draft: Miami Marlins select Braxton Garrett

There was a question whether the Miami Marlins would go with a safe option versus a high-upside selection, and that choice came up for them in the 2016 MLB Draft. On the safe side, the team's most rumored selection, left-hander Braxton Garrett out of Florence High School in Alabama was available as expected and held all of the accolades of being the "safe" high-draft choice, including a more polished-than-expected approach and a well-developed breaking pitch. On the other hand, Jason Groome, the lefty out of New Jersey who has the electric fastball, hammer curve, signability issues, and recent controversy about makeup and suspension for transfer violations, stood as perhaps the most talented prep pitcher in the draft but the one with the most questions.

Miami opted for the safer choice.

With the seventh pick in the draft, the Marlins selected Braxton Garrett and will hope that he moves through the system fast. As mentioned, Garrett has the highest floor of any prep prospect in the draft, thanks in large part to a very well-developed arsenal. That arsenal is highlighted by a high-70's 12-6 hammer curveball that is probably the best in the entire draft. Garrett's pitching mechanics out of a three-quarters delivery are easy and smooth, and his arm action is consistent no matter which pitch he throws. His fastball sits in the high-80's and low-90's, prototypical for a left-handed starting pitcher. There have been no concerns at least for any injury problems.

Garrett has a commitment to Vanderbilt University, but with the Marlins having been watching and been rumored to take Garrett at this spot, it is likely the team will be able to sign him. With his polish, he may move through the farm faster than expected. Overall, this appears to be a strong selection for the Marlins.