The MLB Draft is quickly approaching, and rather than rehash all the latest updated mock drafts I wanted to take the time today to single out a particular college bat whose had a good career year at the plate and has been moving up the draft boards lately, shortstop CJ Chatham.
CJ has been the steady #3 hitter in the FAU Fighting Owls lineup all year, leading the team to its first regular season conference championship in Conference USA. CJ, picked as the preseason favorite to win player of the year in the conference, was recently awarded the Conference Player of the Year Award, along with the Defensive Player of the Year Award as well in this his third and most successful season at the college level. CJ started every game for the Owls this year at the shortstop position.
On the year, statistically, CJ had the following:
In 55 games through the regular season and conference tournament, CJ batted .367 with a .435 OBP, .574 SLG and 1009 OPS. CJ also scored 48 runs, had 17 doubles, four triples, eight home runs and 49 RBI on the season.
Per Chuck King, Managing Editor for FAUOwlAccess.com :
SS CJ Chatham Jr., 6-4, 180 R/R
Possesses strong arm and surprising range for this size. Hit .355 as a sophomore and showed hints of power to come. Recently listed among Perfect Game’s Top 150 MLB Draft prospects. With a strong junior season, Chatham should vault into the draft’s early rounds. Might eventually become a third baseman as his body continues to mature.
D1baseball.com this year has had C.J. ranked as the second best shortstop in the nation.
Baseball America just recently did a post/video on CJ, pointing out his success this season, discussing his consistent contact as a hitter and an overall solid approach at the plate. Defensively, CJ is stated to have solid range and a strong arm that can keep him at shorttop even with his six foot four build.
The most glaring improvement for C.J. during his college career has been his BB and K rates. As a Freshman, C.J. had eight walks against 39 Ks for a 4.88 ratio. His sophomore season, saw the numbers improve to ten walks against 28 Ks, 2.80 ratio. Now in his Junior year CJ has seen his BB/K rate drop dramatically down to 1.43.
Regarding his position on the field, the newly minted conference defensive player of the year C.J. has played everyday at shortstop on the team. However, he’s had experience in the past at the hot corner, as well as playing outfield in high school and is also said to possess a mid 90’s fastball, just in case.
As with the history of teams in regards to high school and international signings, we’ve learned that you can never truly have enough shortstops in the pipeline. And with the option of a possible transition to 3B being available, it might be worth looking into for the Mets.
Don’t be surprised to see his name called in the top 100. (cough cough) well look at that the Mets hold the #100 pick in this years draft.
And since the Mets have a glaring need at third base within the system, I certainly wouldn’t mind Mr. Chatham wearing a Mets cap after draft day.
Also of note, I asked CJ recently what its like to have won these awards and be receiving so much national attention. CJ stated, “If feels great to be recognized for my hard work I’ve put in all my life”.
Featured image courtesy of CJ official twitter page @Cjchatham
Thanks for the research and write up. I’m always amazed of what college baseball teams fall are in division I.
Thank you MarSanti
FAU and its fantastic baseball program led by their coach who is battling cancer is getting stronger and becoming an elite program.
Im rooting for CJ to become the highest drafted player ever from the school
I looked up some more. He looks solid. Plus, SS are usually the most athletic and convertible players. He could end up playing 3b, 2b or even center.
Pick him up with #19 unless Collins/Kirilloff falls otherwise use #31 and then Okey. I don’t think he lasts to #100. Lastly pass on Craig.
I think #19 is definitely too early for him although I certainly like Chatham. Why pass on Craig?
Perhaps but they need a college 3b or of bat who can also play ss reminds me of Bryant/ zobrist type. As for Craig big bodied DH type who make Duda look athletic, not idea for nl team.
All I know is that Chatham is a super nice guy whose thankful and feeling blessed when it comes to hearing about any/all positive attention hes getting. I wish him well .
Good maybe he can be the next captain of team after wrights early retirement.