Quick was the defining characteristic of the Colorado Rockies’ first-round pick in today’s Major League Baseball draft.
They selected Vanderbilt closer Casey Weathers, a converted outfielder, who has wowed scouts with his 96-mph fastball. Weathers, according to many, could reach the majors fastest than any other pitcher in the draft. And because he’s a senior, he has no leverage, so he should be easy to sign and get started in the minor leagues.
Major League Basball has recommended a 20-percent decrease in salary slotting this year, leaving Weathers in line for around a $1.9 million to $2 million signing bonus.
That Weathers is on the fast track was unimaginable a few years ago. He was a lowly-regarded junior college outfielder when he tested his arm strength off the mound one day after practice. He found his niche and transferred to Vanderbilt.
He went 12-2 with a 2.37 ERA and seven saves this season for the Commodores. He struck out 75 with 21 walks in 49 1/3 innings.
The Rockies also were high on Clemson left-hander Daniel Moskos, who went to the Pirates with the fourth pick, and Canadian high-schooler Phillippe Aumont and Arkansas starter Nick Schmidt.
Staff Writer Troy Renck can be reached at 303-954-1301 or trenck@denverpost.com
