The Twins continue to build up a deep pipeline of catching prospects, selecting Texas backstop Carson Tinney in the 2nd round. He is the 73rd ranked draft prospect according to MLB Pipeline and 58th on Fangraphs. While Tinney has a big arm and a solid chance to stick at catcher, its the monstrous power that the Twins are going after with this pick.
Tinney is 6’4”, and at 21 years old, he is posting exit velocities north of 116 mph and clocked an absurd 112 mph 90th this season at Texas. He has significant
hit tool concerns, striking out at a 23.1% clip this year and running high whiff rates in the strike zone and against all pitch types. He mitigates these concerns with a patient approach. Tinney led the SEC in walks this year and had no issue hitting against top competition, posting a 1.108 OPS against SEC opponents.
He lacks athleticism and doesn’t have the same ceiling as Lackey defensively. Still, its a plus arm with receiving and blocking that looks like it can develop into an average major league catcher. He didn’t play any first base at Texas this year, but with his size, that looks like an option the Twins could explore going forward if he doesn’t work out behind the dish.
It can be tempting for fans to disagree with the decision to draft another catcher, and that is a valid concern. However, the Twins’ front office and scouting department is looking at a bat with elite potential, arguably the best raw power in the entire draft. Carson Tinney could move to first base, he could be a trade asset, or he could stick at catcher. He is a risky profile, but one that has a chance to pay off in a huge way for the Minnesota Twins.
