CLE
Akil Baddoo, OF
Edit player ✎
Baseball Reference →
FanGraphs →
MLB →
Scouting report
Despite having a middling career in terms of overall performance, the Tigers selected Baddoo in last year’s Rule 5 draft based on his tools and on-base skills, and he’s off to a strong start this spring. Baddoo has always impressed in terms of tools since he was selected by the Twins in the second round of the 2016 draft. Built like an NFL defensive back, he has above average raw power and speed, but it comes with questions about the bat. He has an excellent understanding of the strike zone, but misses plenty of off-speed pitches in the zone, with some scouts pointing to a swing that is far from smooth and simple. He’s a solid center fielder, but has not recovered well from a previous Tommy John surgery and has a below average arm. Scouts love the makeup and Baddoo hasn't been overwhelmed by the big league opportunity and competition in front of him this spring. He has a good chance to stick with the Tigers as a fourth outfielder this year, but that might also be his ceiling. (Fall Instructional League)