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Once the teams were announced the fans and media started to pick apart the teams’ selections. Overall there were not a whole lot of surprises, though. Most people could predict most teams top three choices. There were a few selections that created debate, however.
Most notable was the Cubs selection of third baseman Ron Santo over second baseman Ryne Sandberg. The Cubs already had Kris Bryant so the selection of Santo was puzzling, especially since Sandberg could have played every day. Cubs President Theo Epstein later stated that Santo’s overall popularity and death in 2010 ultimately led to the selection. Although he did acknowledg it created a unique dilemma for his team.
Another notable omission was Rafael Palmeiro, who was passed up by the Texas Rangers. Palmeiro met the requirements to be selected. However, Rangers’ President Jon Daniels said Palmeiro’s steroid history and overall perception contributed. Fans will watch Jeff Burroughs to see how his career unfolds as he was likely the choice made instead of Palmeiro.
Toronto surprised a few by selecting Juan Guzman as one of their three players. Guzman was a heralded prospect who struggled with control in his initial career. Blue Jays GM Ross Atkins said Guzman’s arm talent was the deciding factor and that he was most likely to have success in the current age of baseball.
The Brewers also took an interesting route by selecting three pitchers. Teddy Higuera was a surprise to no one as was Rollie Fingers. The selection of left-hander closer Dan Plesac did surprise some, though. The Brewers history hasn’t been great and Plesac was regarded by the team as most likely to succeed in the present day.
The Twins selection of Tony Oliva over Rod Carew surprised a few as well. However, Twins GM Thad Levine said it was Oliva’s power and overall game that they thought would translate best to today. Carew was selected by the Angels, so they’ll get a chance to see if they were right.
The most interesting selections were probably from the recent expansion teams as they did not have much of a history. Those teams obviously raised the biggest objections to this new system. However, they were kind of the odd men out so to speak. The Marlins and Rays were really the biggest losers without many all-star appearances among their selections. They will, however, have the chance at both Stanton and Gray so there is some hope for their fans. Those markets will likely have a tough time under this new system, though, until these old-time players reach free agency.
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