By: Chris Kemlo
Ontario Scouting Director

Josh Naylor, 1B, Mississauga, 2015

It was late August 2012. Team Canada was about to take off for Italy, and a roster spot had conveniently opened up. A day before their departure Team Canada was playing a future’s team assembled with high school players from Toronto, including a young 15 year old first baseman, Josh Naylor.

Seizing the opportunity, the talented left-handed hitter made quite the impression, earning himself an invitation to play on Team Canada.

With the start of his sophomore year upon him, Naylor put his time in the classroom on hold as he decided to travel over seas and play with the National team instead.

And, since that occasion, Naylor has become a household name.

PLAYER COMPARISON

The talented left-handed hitter, who many jokingly refer to as a “baby Prince Fielder”, is known for his impressive power, which is exhibited in grand fashion during his impressive batting practice rounds.

SCOUTING ANALYSIS

Naylor shows ability to drive the ball to all fields with solid contact. His raw power and 6-foot-1, 225-pound frame make it easy to draw comparisons to Prince.

Offensively, Naylor starts his hands high with a slightly open stance. He has a smooth load while he stays quiet and balanced to the ball. Naylor has explosive hands and gets great extension through the baseball. He hits them high and far with run producer type power.

Defensively, Naylor plays a quality first base with good actions and instincts around the bag. He possesses above average arm strength with some quickness to his release.

PERFORMING ON THE BIG STAGE

Naylor has been a mainstay in the middle of the lineup for Team Canada and the Ontario Blue Jays since 2012. He recently competed in the Under Armour All-American game at Wrigley Field and will continue his last year traveling with Team Canada and the Ontario Blue Jays 18 White squad. Come June, Naylor will be a hot topic in MLB war rooms during the draft.