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Let’s take a look at where the MLB Draft Class of 2016 is now

By Joshua Sadlock

TAMPA, FL - JUNE 03: Mickey Moniak (2) of the Threshers hits his first home run of the season during the Florida State League game between the Florida Fire Frogs and the Clearwater Threshers on June 03, 2018, at Spectrum Field in Clearwater, FL. (Photo by Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - JUNE 03: Mickey Moniak (2) of the Threshers hits his first home run of the season during the Florida State League game between the Florida Fire Frogs and the Clearwater Threshers on June 03, 2018, at Spectrum Field in Clearwater, FL. (Photo by Cliff Welch/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) /
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LOS ANGELES, CA – February 19: Los Angeles Angeles’ Matt Thaiss during photo day at Tempe Diablo Stadium on Tuesday, February 19, 2019 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA – February 19: Los Angeles Angeles’ Matt Thaiss during photo day at Tempe Diablo Stadium on Tuesday, February 19, 2019 in Tempe, Arizona. (Photo by Keith Birmingham/MediaNews Group/Pasadena Star-News via Getty Images) /

16. Los Angeles Angels: Matt Thaiss, C, Virginia

The Angels believed Virginia catcher Matt Thaiss had the best bat in the NCAA in 2016 and were pleased he was still around when it came time to make the 16th pick. He was polished as a hitter and projected to bring some power as he grew as a professional. Thaiss caught for UVA, but he was viewed as likely to transition from behind the plate to first base by most scouts due to concerns about his arm and receiving skills.

Thaiss was moved to first base immediately by the Angels to accelerate his climb through the minor leagues. He has not logged a single inning at catcher as a pro, but that hardly takes away his value. Thaiss reached Triple-A last season and is knocking on the door of the big leagues in 2019.

As a hitter, Thaiss showed great polish his first three professional seasons and has begun opening up his swing to generate more power. He has hit .279/.363/.444 with 44 home runs in 398 games in the minors, but 29 of them have come in his last 198 games. He has already hit 13 this season through his first 73 games and has hit slugging percentage close to the .500 mark.

Thaiss is nearly ready to join the Angels if they can work around their first base/DH logjam. With his power developing, he does fit the mold of a productive, above average MLB first baseman. Thaiss won’t reach superstar first baseman levels of power output, but he is poised for a sustained career.

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