Luhnow watches Draft prospect Rodon in person

LAKELAND, Fla. -- Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow was among the team's contingent that traveled to Tallahassee, Fla., on Friday to watch North Carolina State left-hander Carlos Rodon, who's expected to be the No. 1 overall pick in the 2014 First-Year Player Draft.

Rodon, the ace for the fifth-ranked Wolfpack, suffered a loss to No. 2 Florida State to fall to 2-3, but he struck out 12 batters and held the Seminoles to two earned runs, five hits and four walks in 6 2/3 innings. He struck out nine of the first 18 batters he faced.

Luhnow wouldn't comment specifically on Rodon, but it's no secret the club has been scouting him heavily and will continue to do so leading up to the Draft. Also playing in Friday's game was speedy N.C. State shortstop Trea Turner, another top-pick candidate.

"It was a productive trip, and it was a classic matchup," Luhnow said. "It was two top-ranked teams with Friday-night starters going and a well-played game. We saw a lot of good baseball. It kind of made me miss my scouting days."

Luhnow plans to get out on Fridays to scout as much as he can during the next few weeks, as he tries to get a look at some college aces, as well as some high-school aces in Texas.

"The schedule starts to run out," Luhnow said.