Dodgers Draft: LA Selects Kendall George, a High Schooler with First Pick in 2023
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The future of the Dodgers is looking bright as they selected a high schooler with the team's first pick of the 2023 MLB Draft.
With the 36th pick in the draft, the Dodgers selected Kendall George out of Texas.
The Arkansas commit was ranked number 88 by Perfect Game of all 2023 grads. People were expecting George to go later in the draft including himself. The high schooler was expecting to be taken by the Dodgers with the team's second round pick.
The Dodgers prioritized speed when making its first selection in the draft.
“The way the game is evolving, the ability to collect hits and steal bases, which we’re seeing on a daily basis, will play very well,” said Dodgers Vice President of amateur scouting Billy Gasparino. (Via Zoom)
George showed off his speed at a Perfect Game event last year when he ran a 60-yard dash in 6.16 seconds.
The Dodgers are going to need more speed as the game evolves. Currently the Dodgers are 21st in stolen bases.
George provides more than just his speed. In eight games with the United States 18U National Team, the then 17-year old hit .364 and slugged .636.
The Dodgers are hoping that George can be a key component to the team in the future.
