The Mets went ahead and drafted Marcus Ward, a guy who was a First All-Region Team outfielder this past spring, as a left-handed pitcher. Seriously, you can almost hear the confusion from the scouting reports. Was it a clerical error, or are they really looking to reinvent this kid on the mound? This move instantly cranks up the intrigue for the Alpharetta, Georgia native.
This Kid Can Mash, And He Can Play the Outfield Too
Let's not forget what Ward has already proven. This past spring, he wasn't just on the Kings Ridge Christian High School team, he was leading them to a 30-4 record and their second-straight Georgia High School Association Final Four. The dude is a winner. At 6’, 175-pounds, he's got a unique, closed stance with that bat held high, almost parallel to the ground behind his head. He swings with a slight leg lift, shifting his weight to unleash a whippy, long-levered swing that he is currently able to level out against pitches upstairs. He sprays the ball around the field with gap power. We're talking mid-80s exit velocities in exhibition games, even clocking as high as 99 MPH. His slim, athletic frame is begging to fill out, promising even more natural power. And his defense? Forget about it. This kid tracks balls like a hawk, taking expeditious routes with a quick first step. His above-average speed gives him serious range out there. Once he makes the putout, his arm is strong and accurate, measured as high as 84 MPH from the outfield. An absolute talent in every aspect of the game.But Wait, The Mound Calls?
This is where things get wild. Despite all that outfield prowess, all that hitting potential, the Mets picked him as a pitcher. The source says it might be a clerical error, or they might genuinely want to see him on the bump. And honestly, he's got some stuff. His fastball has been clocked as high as 89 MPH. He's not just throwing gas either; he complements that heat with a mid-70s slider, a mid-60s curveball, and a low-70s changeup. That's a full arsenal, not just a one-trick pony. It really makes you wonder what kind of hidden potential the Mets scouts saw in his arm that makes them want to shift his entire focus. Marcus Ward has already committed to Western Carolina University, so there's a big decision ahead. Does he take his talents to college and develop as a two-way threat, or does this unexpected pitching draft pick sway his path to the pros right out of high school? Whatever he decides, this kid's journey just got infinitely more interesting. We'll be keeping a close eye on Ward and his next move!This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.