Athletics linked to George Lombard Jr.'s younger brother in upcoming draft

Athletics linked to George Lombard Jr.'s younger brother in upcoming draft

Over the years, it has been a mixed bag in how the front office has made its selections. While they have taken mostly college players, there are more than a few instances where they have taken a high school player in the first round.

Now, there are a ton more college names on the board this year, but Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter suggests the A's will take New York Yankees' prospect George Lombard Jr.'s younger brother, high school shortstop Jacob Lombard, at No. 8.

"An inconsistent summer on the showcase circuit aside, Lombard remains a 60-power, 65-speed shortstop with dynamic raw tools and one of the highest ceilings in the entire class. With a 6'3", 185-pound frame, he is more physical than his older brother, George Lombard Jr., who is currently the top prospect in the Yankees system."

There are some concerns with his game, as he struggled with fastballs up in the zone last summer. but has added more strength and speed as of this year. He could be one of the best gambles in this class if the A's are willing to take that chance.

More MLB news:

• Orioles projected to take Georgia Tech standout outfielder in first round
• Royals projected to draft one of the 'safest players in the entire class'
• Cubs' Shota Imanaga finds his rookie form and a spot in the pitching power rankings
• Brewers' flamethrower is knocking on the door to become a top-five starter
• Yankees' Max Fried makes quite the jump in latest pitching power rankings