Astros Future Interview: Alex Bregman
The Astros draft and Minor League system has really been an intriguing part of the team for the fans the last few years. Even post 2015-deadline the Astros Minor League system is still stacked thanks to a strong 2015 draft class.
Following three consecutive 100-loss seasons, the Astros had another #1 overall pick in 2014. They ended up selecting Brady Aiken, who failed to sign due to medical reasons. That may have turned out to be a blessing in disguise, because the Astros were compensated with the #2 overall pick in 2015. With this pick the Astros selected LSU shortstop Alex Bregman.
Coming out of high school Alex Bregman was thought of as a good prospect but fell to the 29th round due to signability concerns and an injury to his middle finger. Bregman ended up attending LSU in which he really made a name for himself.
His freshman season was outstanding. He hit .369 with 6 HR, 52 RBI and 16 stolen bases earning him the Brooks Wallace Award (best college shortstop) and was named the 2013 National Freshman of the Year by multiple outlets. He followed up 2013 with another solid season, though his numbers were down a bit. In 2015, Bregman put it all together. He finished the season hitting .323 with 9 HR, 22 2B and 38 stolen bases. He received the Rawlings Gold Glove award for shortstop and was once again voted as an All-American.
All of this led to the Astros selecting Bregman with the #2 overall pick in 2015. I was fortunate enough to get an interview with Alex. In the interview he talks about being drafted out of high school and his decision not to sign and go to college. He also talks about sticking at shortstop and proving the naysayers wrong.
Alex has already moved through the system faster than expected reaching High A Lancaster after only 29 professional games. Bregman has all the tools to be a major league shortstop and it appears it may be moving through the system quick!
Go Astros!
**Photo Credit: Richard Guill**
