Draft Profile: Cornelius Randolph
*** With the 2015 First-Year Player Draft fast approaching, we take a closer look at the top prospects in this year's class. ***
Name: Cornelius Randolph
Position: SS
School: Griffin HS (Ga.)
Rank on Draft Top 200: 19
DOB: 06/02/1997
Bats: L Throws: R
Height: 6'1" Weight: 190 lbs.
College commitment: Clemson
Tools
Future grades on 20-80 scouting scale
30: Well below average
40: Below average
50: Average
60: Above average
70-80: Well above average
Hit: 55
Power: 55
Run: 40
Arm: 55
Field: 40
Overall: 55
Stats (through June 2)
Avg: .526
AB: 76
2B: 11
HR: 7
SLG: .934
Scouting report
Griffin (Ga.) High has produced a pair of big league infielders in Jeff Treadway and Tim Beckham, and it may have a third on the way in Randolph. He's Griffin's best prospect since Beckham and profiles as more of an impact hitter than the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 Draft has become. Randolph has the tools and approach to hit for power and average. He offers bat speed, strength and patience from the left side of the plate. He uses the entire field and has better pitch recognition than most high schoolers. Currently a shortstop, Randolph will move to a less challenging position at the next level. The Clemson recruit has good hands but lacks the quickness to play in the middle infield. His arm hasn't been as strong this spring, when he has dealt with biceps tendinitis, but it and his bat would profile well at third base.
MLB comp: Dmitri Young
Fun fact: Randolph attended the same high school as current Rays infielder Tim Beckham, who was the first overall pick in the 2008 First-Year Player Draft.
He said it: "My brother went through a lot growing up that helped me. He didn't know about the travel ball scene, but he wound up playing for a small college in Alabama until his career ended with a blown-out knee. He wants me to do better and never take the game for granted."
-- Randolph, via USA Today
They said it: "For a high schooler, he plays the game above his ears and understands the game. He was never overwhelmed by the situation or the pressure."
-- Griffin HS coach Alex Wyche, via USA Today