Detroit Tigers: Should Austin Martin be the first overall pick?

The Detroit Tigers have the first overall pick. While the mock drafts all indicate that Spencer Torkelson will be selected first, could Austin Martin be the pick?

At this point, every mock draft appears to have a consensus – that the Detroit Tigers will select Spencer Torkelson with the first overall pick. Although it is unusual for a first baseman to be taken that highly, Torkelson’s impressive power and potential to be a game changer with the bat override his defensive limitations.

However, Torkelson may not be a lock at that pick. There has been some discussion that the Tigers may prefer Austin Martin, an outfielder/third baseman from Vanderbilt. In fact, had the college season happened in full, there was a realistic chance that Martin would be the first overall selection.

It is easy to see why teams are intrigued by Martin. He is considered to be the best pure hitter in the draft, using the entire field while consistently making hard contact with his short swing. Martin is not going to be a power hitter, but his gap power and solid speed could lead to a lot of doubles. With his ability to make contact, he could settle in as a fixture in the second spot in the batting order.

Martin’s speed is not just notable on the basepaths. He has played a variety of positions defensively, with that speed showing well during his time in the outfield. He gets a good jump on the pitcher, and plays faster than the numbers would indicate.

The biggest question when it comes to Martin is where he plays. He has spent time at first, second, third, and in center during his career at Vanderbilt. Teams had been hoping to see him at short, but he already has a fringy arm that could force him to remain at second or make a permanent move to center.

Had the collegiate season happened, teams may have gotten their wish. His excellent offensive profile, and his being considered the best pure hitter in the draft, could have pushed Martin into being that top overall pick. However, with just 16 games having been played this year, he simply did not have enough time to make that push.

Austin Martin is an intriguing player, and one that could be worth the top overall pick. Had there been a full 2020 season, Martin could have forced the Detroit Tigers into a difficult decision.