Miami Marlins: 5 Shortstops to Target in the 2021 MLB Draft

2. Max Muncy

School: Thousand Oaks (CA)

Not related to the Dodgers first basemen, Muncy is the other high school shortstop along with Williams that is arguably just a step below the big four. Muncy offensively displays a right-handed swing that has the potential for above-average power down the road, while also displaying solid power right now.

An Arkansas commit, Muncy defensively could potentially transition to another infield position, but projects well to remain at shortstop going forward. Drawing a comparison to current Braves shortstop Dansby Swanson offensively with more power, it’s easy to see why Muncy is projected to come off the board early-on.

1. Matt McLain

School: UCLA

While it is currently unknown to whether McLain will fall to even be available at pick No. 16 for Miami, there is no denying that the top college shortstop in this draft is a bonafide Top 15 overall first round pick. A former first round pick by the Diamondbacks in the 2018 MLB Draft, McLain opted to attend UCLA where he slashed .279/.360/.478 with 16 HR’s, 85 RBI’s, and 16 SB’s in three seasons with the Bruins.

While the numbers may be a bit weighed down by a disappointing freshman season, McLain is still one of the best college hitters in this draft displaying an above-average hit tool and speed on the basepaths, along with strong defense with a plus-arm. One of the top overall college prospects in this draft, McLain might be too good to pass up if he is still on the board when Miami is on the clock in the first round.

While the Miami Marlins have depth at the shortstop position going forward, it’s clear that a few of these players might be too good to pass on if still available. Don’t be surprised if Miami selects a shortstop early-on, especially if McLain potentially falls in the first round.