Chad
McDaniel

9/23/19:The Tigers top position prospect for 2020 is catcherChad McDaniel. And he did nothing to lesson his draft stock with three doubles in his first five at-bats during the triple-header. Strong, fast and athletic, McDaniel showed an average arm behind the plate. However, he is not a natural receiver and does not project to be more than serviceable, at best. His likely future position may be an outfield corner or first base, but could become the rare backstop who hits instead of catches his way to the big leagues, like John Jaso. The switch-hitting McDaniel projects to hit for power over average at the pro level and is likely to receive Day Two consideration this June.

8/12/19:Switch-hitting backstopChad McDanielis a plus athlete who displayed above average raw power from the left-side and just below average from the right. His left-handed swing and approach are well ahead of his right side at this time. Showed average raw arm strength, yet it played below average (2.20 game POP) with a long transfer to a high throwing slot. Did not look natural sitting or receiving behind the dish, as he whiffed on a couple of pitches. However, he did block well showing good feet and agility. He’s a plus runner underway, stealing 16 bases in 22 attempts this past spring. Overall, he’s big (6’3/215) and athletic with an idea at the plate. With defensive improvements and a strong junior season offensively for the Tigers, McDaniel has the potential to become a Day Two selection. (Seifert)