Theo Epstein and Jed Hoyer decided to select Indiana C/1B/OF Kyle Schwarber in what could be considered an even bigger surprise than the one that sent Kolek to Miami. Schwarber wasn't a well-known name but the fact that he mainly played as a C for Indiana was certainly appealing for a team that is thin in prospects behind the dish.

It remains to be seen if Schwarber will stay as a catcher at the MLB level and with Anthony Rizzo settled at 1B, Schwarber's path could be destined to the OF. His bat is likely to play there since he has gap power to all fields and considering the fact that power bats are tough to find, the Cubs might have done thw right thing with their first-round selection.

Considering the success the Cubs had drafting Kris Bryant last year, there's little surprise on this selection. It might be considered a reach but it was clear that Chicago's FO sees a bright future in Schwarber's possible career as a Major Leaguer
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Catcher Kyle Schwarber is a Round No. 1 talent who has also been one of college baseball best performers, terrorizing Big-10 pitchers to the tune of .340 average with 12 home runs. Neither Schwarber’s swing or body is pretty, but he has an unbelievable knack for getting the barrel on the ball and has game-changing power
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http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2082724-mlb-draft-2014-pro-player-comparison-and-scouting-report-for-kyle-schwarber

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"That's what the internet is for. Slandering others anonymously." Banky
“Been that way since one monkey looked at the sun and told the other monkey ‘He said for you to give me your fuckin’ share.’”

Let's hope he signs quick and for far under slot.

It will be interesting to see what Nola and Pentecost do.

It will be interesting to see what Schwarber does.

I really didnt care about the position, I cared about the readiness of the player. Of course knowing Theostein, he will need 500 AB's at each level.

But I am in favor of MLB power.

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"That's what the internet is for. Slandering others anonymously." Banky
“Been that way since one monkey looked at the sun and told the other monkey ‘He said for you to give me your fuckin’ share.’”

I think the readiness factor is why they went with a college player instead of a HS player.

So they chose a catcher because they are thin in the minors at the catcher position but it remains to be seen if he will be a catcher?

He can also play linebacker. Chicago needs this.

Maybe Shea can play right.

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You know me like that.

No way he outpunts O'Donnell.

MUST BE A CUB FAN - Clearly you "haven't" seen my work, "Peoria" Schmatt.

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"Week"

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You know me like that.

The kid can flat hit. I have read several that say he was the best bat in the draft.

I think they will do everything they can to keep him at catcher. Clearly a position of need.

I still think I would rather had Nola, but I think this is going to be a solid pick.

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"He is a loathsome, offensive brute
--yet I can't look away."

The Cubs draft a kid from IU and RFDC loves the pick. This is a shocking development.

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Fare you well, fare you well
I love you more than words can tell
Listen to the river sing sweet songs
To rock my soul

Never said I love the pick. I have said 2 times already I would rather have had Nola. I would also rather had Jackson.

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"He is a loathsome, offensive brute
--yet I can't look away."

They obviously got it right with Bryant so let's hope this kid really is a masher.

Doesn't sound like he'll stick at catcher though.

They drafted of who bust out in the minors so now they are trying guys who never played the position to do the same

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O judgment! Thou art fled to brutish beasts,
And men have lost their reason.

Pitt Dolphin

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Excellent choice by Jedstein in getting a fellow IU man. Just a matter of knowing whether we have Billy Butler or Matt Holliday.

STRETCH!!

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Reality is your friend, not your enemy. -- Seacrest

Great thoughts if you've just had a stroke.

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Kenny Williams fell for the banana in the tailpipe

Into homeruns!

Why is it a stretch?

Name 5 WhiteSox prospects off the top of your head

...
.
.?

Prospect knowledge championship!

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You do not talk to me like that! I work too hard to deal with this stuff! I work too hard! I'm an important member of the CSFMB! I drive a Dodge Stratus!

I don't think there is any evidence they use the first round picks on need. Seems they always go with who they have as best available. Likely what happened here.

Kyle Schwarber is a Cub name if I've ever heard one

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Hmmm didn't a couple of afternoon guys' Cubs sources say they were going pitching with the first pick? Could've sworn I heard that yesterday .

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Proud member of the white guy grievance committee

It aint the six minutes. Its what happens in those six minutes.

better hope they allow X to suffice as a signature on a contract

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O judgment! Thou art fled to brutish beasts,
And men have lost their reason.

I watch MLB. Prospect watching in baseball is an exercise in futility. I would think a Cub fan would have learned that lesson by now.

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O judgment! Thou art fled to brutish beasts,
And men have lost their reason.

The(o) Plan is to draft an AL style team with 200+ HR, 10,000K and a hodgepodge of guys playing unfamiliar corner positions because of their hitting.

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O judgment! Thou art fled to brutish beasts,
And men have lost their reason.

This pick really disappoints me. Not because of the player or anything, but because I was all set to come in here and troll bigfan about the Cubs pitcher draft pick and his expected injury, but now I can't. You've foiled me again, Theo!!

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Carlos Rodon
Matt Davidson
Micah Johnson
Jacob May
Spencer Adams

THE CORE FIVE! They will lead the White Sox to multiple championships between 2019 and 2024.

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Anybody here seen my old friend Bobby?
Can you tell me where he's gone?
I thought I saw him walkin' up to The Hill
With Matthew, Tulsi, and Don