OAKLAND -- The A's took University of South Florida infielder Kevin Merrell with their second Draft pick (33rd overall) on Monday.
Their first selection was high school center fielder Austin Beck, who came to them at No. 6. The A's also selected LSU outfielder Greg Deichmann at No. 43.
:: 2017 MLB Draft coverage ::
• A's sixth overall pick: Austin Beck
• A's 43rd overall pick: Greg Deichmann
The left-handed-hitting Merrell hit .384 with seven homers for the Bulls as a junior this season, spending most of his time at shortstop and second base. He can also play all three outfield positions, but A's scouting director Eric Kubota said, "We think he can play shortstop full-time."
Speed is Merrell's most well-regarded tool. Considered the fastest college player in this year's Draft, Merrell stole 56 bases in 67 opportunities during his three-year career at South Florida.
"He's got that athletic ability," Kubota said. "His speed tool is probably equal to anybody in this Draft. We think he's advanced as a hitter, and we think he's got an outstanding tool, and those two things work well together."

The Draft continues on Tuesday with Rounds 3-10. The MLB.com preview show begins at 9:30 a.m. PT, with exclusive coverage beginning at 10 a.m. PT.