Coming into this year there was a lot of chatter that Hansen could go first overall in the draft with a strong spring. He pitched well during the fall and scouts were excited to see what happened this season.
Background: Hansen is a big kid as he stands 6’7″ pitcher while only weighing 235 lbs. He’s a right handed junior that pitches for the Oklahoma Sooners. Hansen coming into 2016 was the Sooners Friday night starter. This is the best starter on the college team.
Stuff: With a big guy Hansen has big stuff. His fastball has touched 100 mph. He backs that up with a plus slider that is a true strikeout pitch to both left handed and right handed hitters. He throws a changeup but as most draft prospects it the worst pitch.
2016: Coming into 2016 Hansen was trying to build on a very solid 2015. Last year he had a 3.95 ERA while striking out 10.32 batters per 9. 2016 has been a disaster so far and has seen Hansen’s draft stock take a huge dive. He currently has 4 loses to 0 wins with a 6.85 ERA. While his strikeout numbers are good as he is striking out 13.15 per 9. His walks and command has taken a huge step back as he is walking 8.31 per 9. He also has been taken out of the starting spot and put into the pen for the Sooners.
Because of all of this his draft stock is way down. As I said coming into the year there was talk about Hansen going 1:1, now he might be a 3rd round pick. I see his stock falling farther and he going back to school. But if the Yankees can take him with a 3rd round pick and pay him close to 2nd round money there is a chance he might sign. At that price and draft position it would be a steal for them. But while that is a possibility I don’t see it happening right now. Hansen’s draft stock will continue to be a big question mark up until the draft:
Up Next: The next draft profile with be Cal Quantrill.
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