2021 MLB Draft Profile: Harry Ford

Overview

Position: C

Height: 5’10″

Weight: 200 pounds

School: North Cobb High School

Commitment: Georgia Tech

Harry Ford is a 2021 catcher out of Kennesaw, Georgia and plays his high school ball for the North Cobb Warriors. Ford is the highest-ranked high school catcher in the 2021 MLB Draft. He played summer ball with the East Cobb Astros. Baez has already signed his NLI to play college baseball for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. Baez also played in the Perfect Game All-American Classic last summer.

At 5’10” 200 pounds, Ford is one of the most athletic catchers in the draft with a plus bat and defensive versatility. Ford has quick hands at the plate that generates his impressive bat speed.

He has the tool to be a very good hitter at the next level especially with his great speed. Ford was clocked running a 6.42 60 yard dash in the East Coast Pro Showcase. He’s the fastest draft-eligible catcher in the country but could also play other positions if necessary. According to MLB Pipeline, one scout likened him to Craig Biggio due to his defensive versatility.

Strengths

• Impressive bat speed
• Good leverage right-handed swing
• Plus defensive catcher
• Elite speed
• 1.81 recorded pop time on Perfect Game
• Good track record against quality pitching
• Extremely gifted athlete
• Mature approach at the plate
• Drives ball to all fields

Weaknesses

• Needs to work on his receiving and footwork
• Doesn’t have a lot of experience at other positions
• Needs work on blocking balls in the dirt
• Some struggles against left-handed pitching

Pro Comparison: Craig Biggio

Projection: Early First Round Draft Pick

Bottom Line

The Miami Marlins went all pitchers in the 2020 MLB Draft, so it would not be surprising if they prioritized the top available hitters this year when it’s their turn to pick. The catcher position is also the Marlins biggest need this draft.

Harry Ford is the second-ranked catcher and the top high school catcher in the draft class. On MLB Pipeline, Ford is the 13th-ranked prospect in the 2021 prospect class. On Perfect Game, Ford is the 13th-ranked player and the second ranked catcher in the country.

The Marlins need to consider selecting a catcher early in the draft and Harry Ford would have a great addition to the Marlins farm system if he’s available. The Fish seem to be targeting some of the top high school prospects and Ford is one of them. I wouldn’t be surprised if the Marlins draft Harry Ford in the first round if he’s available.