With the 39th pick of the 2013 MLB First Year Player Draft, the Detroit Tigers select Corey Knebel, a right handed pitcher out of Texas. Knebel is a Texas closer, much like Chance Ruffin a few years ago. But the comparisons end there. Ruffin was a guy with multiple pitches and Knebel has power stuff. In particular, he has a great fastball that sits in the low to mid 90s and touches 98 at times. He combines this with a very good curveball and great makeup on the mound; the guy is a bulldog.
That said, Knebel has had some off-the-field issues. He was suspended for getting into a fight with one of his coaches and attempted to use his urine in a teammate's drug test. If he can overcome these issues, he's a good player, and one who could potentially close in Detroit.
The Tigers have one more draft pick tonight, the 58th overall in the second round.
Update:
Just talked with Corey Knebel. Sounds like #Tigers have plans on making him a starter, at least to begin his pro career.
— Jason Beck (@beckjason) June 7, 2013
GIFs
Fastball:
Curveball:
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