Oakland A’s 2019 Draft Profile: Keoni Cavaco, Eastlake HS (CA)

The MLB Draft is coming up next week on Monday, June 3. Click here for my preview, exploring trends in past A’s drafts. Here’s a profile of one of the more rhythmic names we could see Oakland choose in the 1st round with the No. 29 overall pick.

Keoni Cavaco, 3B | Eastlake HS, Chula Vista (CA)

DOB: 6/2/01

Size: 6’1” 185

Bats/Throws: Right/Right

Stats: UNK

Fangraphs Scouting Grades: (Future Value = 45)

Hit: 25/50 | GamePow: 25/55 | RawPow: 55/60 | Speed: 60/55 | Field: 45/50 | Arm: 55/55

Pros:

A 5’6” 134-pound freshman, Cavaco is one of the biggest risers in the 2019 Draft. He made a name for himself in the Fall and the helium has only increased through the Spring. He has above-average or better Raw Power, Speed and Arm strength with some willing to project 70 Grade Raw Power down the road. He has the chance to be a plus defender at 3B. He doesn’t turn 18 until the day before the draft and he’s still filling out (and figuring out) his body. He’s committed to San Diego State but he’s expected to go early enough to forgo college.

Cons:

The Hit tool comes with questions. He has some swing and miss and struggles to cover the outer half. If you’re a team that likes a long track record before taking a player then you aren’t going to be comfortable with Keoni Cavaco.

Monster:

I’m fully of the belief that the Oakland Athletics aren’t going to need a new 3B for a very long time but I don’t see an issue with adding what could be a premium, two-way talent at the hot corner. You have to believe in Cavaco’s growth thus far, and that it will continue down the road. If he hits, he has the athleticism to move to the outfield if necessary. Then again … a plus defensive 3B with plus Power is an extremely valuable trade chip. The important thing is to add high-ceiling talent and you can figure out the roster later. Keoni Cavaco is a high-ceiling talent.