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Ethan Conrad, a standout player from Saugerties, has been drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the first round of the Major League Baseball Draft. Selected as the seventeenth overall pick, Conrad's journey to the majors is marked by his impressive performance despite a challenging season shortened by injury.
Conrad, a Saugerties High School graduate, began his collegiate baseball career at Marist University, where he played two seasons. He then transferred to Wake Forest University, a decision that proved pivotal in his development as a player. During his time at Wake Forest, Conrad batted .372 with a slugging percentage of .744, hitting seven home runs in just 21 games before a shoulder injury ended his season early. Despite this setback, his talent and potential caught the attention of the Cubs.
According to Yahoo Sports, Conrad's performance in the Cape Cod League also played a significant role in his draft selection. In the league, he hit .385, showcasing his skills with a wooden bat, which is highly regarded by MLB scouts.
Bleed Cubbie Blue reports that Conrad is a 6-foot-3, 220-pound left-handed outfielder with excellent bat-to-ball skills and above-average power. His ability to play center field, coupled with his aggressive approach at the plate, makes him a high-upside player for the Cubs. However, his injury history and tendency to chase bad pitches are noted concerns.
Conrad's selection marks the seventh time in the past three years that a Wake Forest player has been picked in the first round, highlighting the university's strong baseball program. As Conrad joins the Cubs, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if he can overcome his injury challenges and reach his full potential in the major leagues.