With their lone first-round pick in the 2012 MLB Draft (No. 25), the Tampa Bay Rays selected Richie Shaffer, a third baseman from Clemson. Shaffer is a 6'3", 205-pound junior. In 63 games for Clemson in 2012, he hit .336 with 10 home runs and 49 RBIs. While his ability to hit for power is a big reason why Shaffer was a first-round pick, there are concerns about where he fits in defensively.
Over at DRaysBay, Steve Slowinski notes that Shaffer could end up at third base, first base or even right field -- although he thinks the Clemson man has the requisite power for any of those spots. Slowinski writes:
Considering how difficult and expensive it can be to acquire power hitters, I'm excited that the Rays have another potential impact bat in the organization. With Josh Sale looking like he might not be dead yet, the Rays could have a handful of mashers in the low minors going forward. With enough luck, maybe one of them will reach the majors.
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