Round 9: Cliff Anderson, Cottonwood HS (UT), OF

Scouting Report: Anderson has a well-rounded game without a glaring weakness. He’s athletic and strong and should hit for power in the pros. At bat, Anderson possesses quick hands, bat speed and good extension. In the field, he shows plus speed and an above-average arm. Offensively, there are concerns about his strikeout rates in the pro game and on defense, his instincts need improvement. However, Anderson’s overall game makes him an intriguing talent. He is committed to Oklahoma State but hasn’t ruled out the draft-and-follow route.

Analysis: If the Cubs can lock Anderson up, this is a fine pick especially in the ninth round. If they can’t, then it is possible they’ll get another chance if he attends junior college.

Round 10: Jake Renshaw, Ventura CC (CA), RHP

Scouting Report: Renshaw overmatched his competition in 2006 with his powerful fastball-slider combo. His fastball generates low-90’s velocity, and his slider sits in the mid-80’s. Renshaw posted a 1.90 ERA in 94.7 IP with a 102/29 K/BB ratio. He is 6’3” 215 and likely is maxed out physically, but his stuff is already solid. Renshaw was drafted in 2004 and is already 20 so he should move quickly.

Analysis: I like this pick. Renshaw has some good stuff to work with as well as numbers to back it up. I envision him moving to the pen and moving up the system quickly.

Round 11: Chris Huseby, Martin County HS (FL), RHP

Scouting Report: Huseby generated lots of interest before his junior year with a live fastball that could already reach the low-90’s and a hard breaking hammer curve to go with a slider and change. His command was excellent as well, especially for an underclassman. Given his loose 6’7” frame, scouts envisioned him adding more velocity as he matured. But as a junior Huseby was injured and underwent Tommy John surgery. He only pitched 4 innings in 2006 but showed signs of full recovery when he hit 93 MPH in a sectional game. He has committed to Auburn and could be a tough sign.

Analysis: If Huseby can fully recover, the Cubs could have a steal on their hands. Huseby certainly has more than 11^th round talent, and he may opt to attend college in order to prove it.

Round 12: Kitt Kopach, Illinois State, RHP

Scouting Report: The 6’1” 200 Kopach has a fastball that works in the 92-94 MPH range and has been reported to reach the mid-90’s. His command, however, is a huge concern. Kopach walked 53 batters last year in 69 innings, hit 11 and threw 10 wild pitches. His problems with control are caused by his shaky mechanics which need improvement. His ERA of 4.17 and 59 strikeouts weren’t too impressive either. Clearly, his most appealing attribute is his ability to throw a fastball at a high speed. He has already signed.

Analysis: Kopach will probably move to the bullpen in the minors, but he won’t go anywhere if he doesn’t improve his command.

Round 13: Matt Camp, North Carolina State University, 2B/OF

Scouting Report: Camp had a rough year in 2005 as a junior and returned to NC State for his senior year. He had his best season yet hitting .383 in 261 at-bats with an outstanding 31/23 BB/K ratio. Camp hasn’t shown much over the fence power, though he did hit 22 doubles. He’s a contact hitter, an adept bunter and has shown solid speed. Camp has played outfield and infield in his career, but his best fit is as second basemen. His defensive versatility and OBP ability make him an ideal utility player.

Analysis: Camp is a solid senior sign. He’ll have to keep his OBP high in order to advance through the system.