2012 MLB Draft: Atlanta Braves Select Pitcher Lucas Sims

Lucas Sims, RHP, Brookwood HS, Snellville, GA: Sims is a 6-2, 195-pound right-hander with a 90-96 MPH fastball, a very good slider, and a useful curve. His command is erratic and he needs to work on his change-up, but his mechanics are solid and should help him stay healthy. He is committed to Clemson but should be signable as a first-rounder, especially for his home-state Braves, who have a long-standing habit of vacuuming up the local talent. They have been college-oriented in recent drafts for monetary reasons, so this is a return to their old tradition of focusing on pitching and long-term upside. Sims is a particularly good athlete, which in theory will help him stay healthy and repeat his mechanics more efficiently as he gains innings and experience. He projects as a number-two starter and already has two breaking pitches, which is not the norm for a high-schooler.