Henry Davis Stats & Scouting Report College Baseball, MLB Draft, Prospects

BA Grade/Risk: 55/High

Track Record: Injuries have beset Davis' professional development since the Pirates made him the No. 1 pick in a 2021 draft that lacked an obvious top prospect. Pittsburgh signed him to a $6.5 million bonus that was $2 million under slot value. Davis appeared in just eight games in 2021 before an oblique injury ended his season. A pair of left wrist injuries limited him to just 53 non-rehab games in 2022 between High-A Greensboro and Double-A Altoona.

Scouting Report: Even in a limited sample size, Davis has reaffirmed the hitting traits that made him the top college bat in his class. He packs considerable strength into his brawny 6-foot-2 frame, and it translates to easy plus power. Davis' barrel control and flat bat path allow him to hit all types of pitch shapes. He cuts an unorthodox presence in the batter's box. Davis sinks into a wide stance, lifting the bat just above his shoulder, sans batting gloves, and then bends forward at the waist, unwilling to cede any ground on the inside part of the plate. Therein lies the problem. Davis, an intense competitor convicted in his approach, was hit by nearly as many pitches (20) as he had extra-base hits (23) in 2022. The Pirates have tried to convince Davis to move off the plate to maintain his health and development. Davis' catching lags behind his bat. He's a stiff mover who needs to continue to clean up his footwork and pitch framing. Davis' arm strength is his calling card, but evaluators note he has struggled with inaccuracy so far as a professional. Some wonder whether a corner outfield position may be a better long-term fit considering his throwing arm, though he's only a fringe-average runner.

The Future: Davis needs to stay on the field. His ceiling remains that of a middle-of-the-order hitter, though his defensive position remains a question mark.

Scouting Grades: Hitting: 55. Power: 60. Speed: 45. Fielding: 40. Arm: 60

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