Burks is first high schooler taken by Cubs

CHICAGO -- The Cubs broke a string of taking eight straight college players in the ninth round of Friday's First-Year Player Draft, selecting prep center fielder Charcer Burks with the 258th overall pick.

Burks, from William B. Travis High School in Austin, Texas, also played shortstop, but the Cubs prefer him in the outfield.

The 6-foot, 170-pounder was one of the better high school athletes in Texas this spring. His speed is his best tool, and he's an above-average runner. Offensively, he has a line-drive swing and makes consistent contact.