Houston Astros Select Carlos Correa Number One Overall in 2012 MLB Draft

The 17-year old Puerto Rican kid with an infectious grin and a power stroke that made Major League general

managers stand up and take notice just became the face of the Houston Astros.  The rebuilding, soon-to-be American League club used their number one overall to take Carlos Correa as their infielder of the future – or outfielder of the future.  He has the versatility to play numerous positions, and as he develops through the minor league system, the Astros will surely be searching for the best fit.

Correa currently plays shortstop and would like to stay there, but many scouts project him as a third baseman, first baseman, or even a corner outfielder if he can put on some weight and keep the power numbers up.

As a high schooler in Puerto Rico, Correa’s competition was often not the greatest.  He did face many talented young players and with the help of the community was even able to play in tournaments that took him to the United States.  He’s currently listed at 6’4, 190 pounds, but many think he will be able to put on some weight and take his already impressive power to a new level.

In an Associated Press interview, Correa said, “This means a lot. We’ve got a lot of good players there.”  He went on to say, “I feel so excited to be the No. 1 pick. I’ve worked so hard to be here.”

Mark Appel from Stanford was expected by many outlets to be selected number one overall by the Astros.  Instead, they took more of a gamble on the young Correa.  As long as there are no hang-ups in getting Correa signed, he will likely report to the Dominican Summer League at some point this summer.

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