Report: Houston Astros Select and Sign Drew Gilbert 28th Overall in 2022 MLB Draft
The Houston Astros selected Drew Gilbert 28th overall in the 2022 MLB Draft.
Gilbert is a center fielder out of the University of Tennessee. The 21-year-old has slashed .362/.455/.673 with 11 home runs and 70 RBI in 244 plate appearances as a member of the Volunteers this season.
The left-handed batter stands at 5'9", 185 lbs., but that hasn't prevented him from possessing a lot of power. He's put up impressive exit velocities during his three years at Tennessee, and has an above-average hit tool.
Not only does Gilbert excel offensively, but he performs well defensively as well. He'll be able to sustain his ability in center field once he reaches the major leagues, as he has a strong arm and plus-speed.
Gilbert becomes the third player to be selected in the first round by the Astros out of Tennessee. He joins Eli Iorg in 2005 and Chris Burke in 2001.
Additionally, Gilbert participated in the Shriners College Classic at Minute Maid Park this season, which also may have influenced Houston's selection.
It seems like Gilbert will fit right in. "The only thing I care about is winning," he said. "I couldn't give a crap about individual awards or stats."
More From SI's Inside The Astros:
- Houston Astros' Catching Prospect Berryhill Fractures Finger
- Report: Lance McCullers' Next Step Could Be a Rehab Assignment
- Houston Astros' José Altuve to Miss All-Star Game
- Houston Astros' Urquidy Cruises Through Six But A's Pounce in the Seventh
- Report: Houston Astros Interested in Right-Handed Starter Luis Castillo
- Peña, Pressly Lift Houston Astros Over Los Angeles Angels In Late-Game Heroics
- Report: Brantley Leaves Astros in Los Angeles For Further Shoulder Tests in Houston
- Report: Altuve Exits Thursday With Contusion, Won't Play Friday
- Houston Astros Lefty Mushinski Makes Fourth Rehab Appearance in Triple-A
- Houston Astros Enter 2022 Draft With Fangraphs' 27th-Best Farm System
Make sure to follow Inside the Astros on Twitter @InsideAstrosSI!