Versatile Freeland is Reds' 15th-round pick

In the 15th round of the 2013 First-Year Player Draft, the Reds picked Jarrett Freeland out of Parkview High School (Ga.) as a catcher. However, that may or may not be the position the 6-foot-6, 206-pound 18-year-old plays at the next level

While in high school, Freeland played first and third base and also took to the mound to go along with his catching duties. Reds senior director of amateur scouting Chris Buckley described Freeland as a "wildcard."

"He's a guy who has caught and also has pitched. We kind of like him at both spots," Buckley said. "He's a very talented guy. As tall as he is and hard as it is to think that he can catch at [6-foot-6], he can do that.

As a junior, Freeland helped lead Parkview to a second straight state title, batting .371 with four homers and 23 RBIs. Baseball America also named the Panthers as national champions that season.

Freeland missed his senior season due to a torn ulnar collateral ligament and underwent Tommy John surgery to repair his right elbow. He's committed to Georgia, where he likely would be used in various roles.

Buckley and his staff were well aware of Freeland's injury and have been in contact with his family. While he hopes to sign Freeland to a professional deal, Buckley said he's not sure how the injury will affect the process.

"It depends how disappointed he is," Buckley said. "Sometimes kids realize, 'Geez, I've all ready been injured and I have an opportunity here, I better take advantage of this. The next time I get injured, that could be it.' Or some kid could say, 'Geez, I just got injured, I better go get my education.' It's kind of hard to tell."