Gambling Against the Slot

Teams Gamble Against the Slot: Top 5 Over-Slot Draft Picks
By: James Hannon

Bud Selig conceived Major League Baseball’s slot system to level the financial playing field for all teams, but the slot system, in many ways, has had a reverse effect: small market teams unable to sign high level prospects and big market teams signing better talent. In last year’s amateur draft, however, many small market teams ignored the slot system, signing touted high school prospects with college scholarships. Here are the top five over-slot signees from the 2008 Amateur Draft and predictions on where they may play in the coming year.


1. Tim Melville (4th Round, 1.25 Million) – Kansas City Royals

Jim Callis from Baseball America raves that Melville is “arguably the best high school pitcher in the draft,” and he was drafted in the 4th round by none other than the Royals! For first round money Melville decided to forgo his scholarship to North Carolina and start his pro career. Scouts clamor at his make-up and work ethic. He does not throw extremely hard, but has plus command of three pitches. Expect Melville to start in Low-A Burlington.

2. Ryan Westmoreland (5th Round, 1.6 Million) – Boston Red Sox

Ryan is an extremely bright and talented player with baseball instincts. He starred at Portsmouth, RI as both a pitcher and an outfielder, but will play OF for the Sox. He fell in the draft for two reasons: he had a scholarship to Vanderbilt and he recently had shoulder surgery, sidelining him until June. Once he comes back he will start in the GCL League. Look for this kid to shoot up the minors in the next couple years.

3. Brett Hunter (7th Round, 1.1 Million) – Oakland Athletics

Hunter, regarded by many as a high 1st round pick, injured his shoulder toward the beginning of his junior year. He dropped down many draft boards due to the injury and his awkward pitching style. This did not stop the A’s from picking him in the 7th round. Expect Hunter to start in Low A Kane County. If he can stay healthy and control his pitches, it won’t be long until he finds himself in an A’s uniform.

4. Robbie Grossman (6th Round, 1 Million) – Pittsburg Pirates

Regarded by many as one of the most talented high school players in the country, Grossman signed a letter of intent to the University of Texas. This did not stop the Pirates, of all organizations, to go well over the slot to lock him up. He profiles as a gap hitter with average to above average power. He is best known for his grittiness. Grossman should start with the GCL Pirates in Florida.

5. J.P. Ramirez (15th Round, 1 Million) – Washington Nationals

Despite not signing their first round pick Aaron Crow due to bonus demands, the Nationals found a jewel in the 15th round with Ramirez. Essentially giving him first round money, the Nationals expect big things from this youngster. Ramirez dominated in his senior year of high school, batting .521 and knocking 22 doubles. He impressed in his pro debut going 7-16 in the GCL playoffs. Expect him start in GCL. If he hits at all like last season, expect a quick promotion.

Other Notable Over-Slots: B.J. Hermsen -- Twins (6th Round 650K), Jordan Danks -- White Sox (7th Round 525K), Rashun Dixon – Athletics (10th Round 600K), Dusty Coleman – Athletics (28th Round 675K) , Bobby Bundy – Orioles (8th Round 600K), Garrison Lassiter – NY Yankees (27th Round 675K), Quinton Miller – Pirates (20th Round 900K)