Toronto really likes Micah Bucknam.
The Toronto Blue Jays must really like Micah Bucknam.
They drafted the New Zealand-born right-handed pitcher in the 16th round in 2021. And on Monday, they drafted him again, making him a fourth-round selection in the 2025 MLB Draft.
Bucknam actually grew up in Canada after being born in New Zealand. He's been a collegiate star at Dallas Baptist.
Here's how MLB.com views him:
One of the best Canadian prospects in the 2021 Draft, Bucknam turned down the Blue Jays as a 16th-rounder to attend Louisiana State. He worked just 16 innings in two seasons in Baton Rouge because of command issues, enjoying more success in two summers in the Cape Cod League before transferring to Dallas Baptist. He became the Patriots' No. 1 starter and has some of the best feel for spin in the college ranks. Bucknam's tight 85-88 mph slider can reach 91, features high spin rates and is a legitimate wipeout pitch, while his low-80s curveball has more depth and is nearly as effective. His fastball stands out more for its velocity, usually ranging from 92-96 mph, than its life or ability to miss bats. He achieves some fade with his upper-80s changeup, though it's too firm and he struggles to land it for strikes. Bucknam has a strong 6-foot-1 frame and has improved his control as a junior, though he still gets into trouble when he catches too much of the plate. To succeed as a starter at the next level, he'll have to improve his fastball command and refine his changeup. If not, he could thrive as a reliever who relies heavily on his breaking pitches.
MORE: Why Nationals chose Eli Willits over Ethan Holliday at No. 1 overall pick
It's certainly a cool pick for the Blue Jays.
Even if Bucknam just turns into a big league reliever, that's solid value for a fourth-rounder.
And if he turns into more, it'll be quite the story.
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Category: Baseball
