Ethan
Paul

4/27/19: As the starting second baseman as a junior last season, Paul passed on an opportunity for pro ball (26th round by Pittsburgh) and returned to Vanderbilt where he is now the everyday shortstop. He reads hops extremely well, getting his feet into good throwing position for a quick release and accurate throws with average arm strength. As the game gets quicker at the next level, he will need to continue his strong fundamentals or his throwing accuracy may suffer. He's a very dependable defender on the turf, making the routine plays look routine. With just three errors this season in 153 chances, Paul is fielding at a .980 clip while playing 28 of his 43 games at home on turf. Based upon my looks, he should be able to stay at shortstop at the next level with the versatility to also play second and third base. Offensively, he sets up in a narrow stance. Takes a medium stride with a hand load and bat tip. Uphill swing path with extra hand movement. Does not have much weight transfer or separation and hits into a semi-firm front leg with too much weight towards his backside. As a result he has below average raw power. He has a high career (21.7%) and 2019 (20.9%) strikeout rates. As a runner, he's more quick than fast. Well below average down the line (4.51) but closer to average underway. Six-for-8 on stolen bases this season. Due to his lack of better than average foot speed or power production, he profiles as an extra infielder at the ML level. As a senior performer in the SEC conference, Paul is a likely Day Two budget saver and could likely go as high as the fifth round for a team wanting to make a deal. (Seifert)

4/4/18 - 5’10/185, Junior- Athletic, live-bodied infielder who played with energy. Good defender with quick feet and hands. Showed above average range. Offensively, he showed an easy swing with average raw power. Stayed connected with his back elbow, hips and hands really well, however he was late getting his front foot down which forced him to rush his swing. Average runner underway with good instincts on the bases. In my estimation, his 2018 draft future is similar to that of Alonzo Jones. (Seifert)