Neo-Tokyo 2021 Draft Recap
The 2021 PEBA Amateur Draft was the first following the absorption of former LRS teams. For Neo-Tokyo it was an opportunity to upgrade the organizational depth chart from a deeper pool of talent than was formerly possible in the LRS draft. Although picking slightly below mid-round, it was hoped that several impact players could fall through the cracks and find their way to the Far East. With the draft containing very few impact pitchers and the organization needing an infusion of offense, especially in the infield, pitching was relegated to Day 2 of the draft. It would be all offense on Day 1. Let’s see what transpired.
Round 1, Pick 20, 20th overall: SS Ben Wells (Age 22) One thing the Akira have never had- and always craved- was an offensively capable shortstop with a glove. Villanova grad Ben Wells was targeted from the get go. The draft team was ecstatic when Wells dropped to them at pick 20. He was rated #2 on their draft board (keeping in mind no pitching was on their board). Wells may have the record for most times drafted by a PEBA team. Originally drafted by Bakersfield out of high school, he decided to pursue a college path. He was then drafted in the first round last year by Omaha (now Hartford) but failed to sign. There are mixed reviews on his projected offense but his glove and speed are sure. A bit of potential power is possible which is always a plus from a SS. A top of the lineup guy and anchor in the infield.
Round 2, Pick 5, 41st overall: RF Ramiro Reynoso (Age 18) Again, NeTo’s draft team was elated that such a talent was available at this point in the draft. Reynoso was selected for one reason: his bat. Power, and lots of it. He’s had 3 3-HR games in high school. He also has elite speed. Defense is a liability for this raw talent, but with a stick like his a place can be found in the lineup. There will be several years of grooming in the minors to work on that.
Round 3, Pick 7, 77th overall: LF Garry Charron (Age 18) A virtual clone of Reynoso, although with less speed and even worse defensively. Oh, but the bat. Potential power galore. Also likes 3 HR games. Scout Craig Lee rates him higher offensively than most do. If just one of these two picks develops as hoped, there will be hell to pay in the PEBA.
Round 3, Pick 21, 91st overall: 1B Chuck Glass (Age 22) Another Omaha draftee, picked in exactly the same spot last year. Above average potential power, contact and speed. Could contribute if he develops. A nice extra pickup for a 3rd rounder.
Round 4, Pick 18, 125th overall: C Atsumori Kichida (Age 22) Yet another repeat draftee, a former 2nd rounder by Lupin. Already well developed, Kichida could be on a fast track to Tokyo. The downside is his weak defensive skill set. With picks 5-7 having been dealt for young relievers, Neo-Tokyo’s next pick wouldn’t be until the 8th round.
Round 8, Pick 18, 253rd overall: RF Nakazo Oka (Age 21) Home grown talent with a great OF glove, a rifle of an arm and blazing speed. If his bat can develop, Oka could possibly break the line up or become a solid 4th outfielder. Average power potential.
Round 9, Pick 18, 285th overall: SP Tony Davis (Age 21) The first pitcher selected by NT in this draft. Davis won’t blow anybody away with his stuff, or him it’s all about control. Davis has shown good improvement each season in college but is a long shot as a starter in the PEBA.
Round 10, Pick 18, 317th overall: SS Ryan Walsh (Age 21) Another great glove at shortstop, with elite speed but without the bat of Wells. Could possibly develop into a contact hitter with some work.
Rounds 11 through 15 hauled 2 SP, 2 C and 3 CF, none of which project as future big leaguers but absolutely improved the talent base in the minors.
Overall, the organization was hopeful that this draft class would have a big impact in the future.