KC opens Day 3 of Draft with catcher pick

KANSAS CITY -- Although there was no elite prospect from Puerto Rico like last year with Astros No. 1 pick Carlos Correa, there were many solid Puerto Rican prospects, and catcher Xavier Fernandez was one of the better ones in this year's Draft class. The 18-year-old from the Puerto Rico Baseball Academy was the Royals' Day 3 opening pick in the 11th round (324th overall) on Saturday.

Behind the plate, Fernandez flashes an above-average arm and good receiving skills. He also shows good agility and has the chance to be an above-average defender in pro ball.

Fernandez is much more raw offensively, but he has a good feel for hitting and displayed some power potential this spring. Most feel Fernandez is ready for pro ball.