With their second round and number 63 overall pick the Tampa Bay Rays continue to take position players with 1B Kyle Manzardo out of Washington State University.
Manzardo hit .365/.437/.640 during the 2021 season. He hit 11 homers in 197 at bats while striking out only 29 times (12.66%) and walking 25 times (10.92%).
Manzardo is a right handed thrower that is very likely limited to first base. That’s usually a death sentence for a prospect. He does hit left handed which does help.
The good news is he really can hit a baseball with Baseball America saying, “Manzardo will have to rely on his bat to lead the way, but he has an advanced feel to hit from the left side.