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The Atlanta Braves needed to restock their farm system this week at the 2012 Draft. Armed with the No. 21 overall pick it was believed the club would look at various pitchers, although they were also linked to various prep middle infielders. Despite plenty of rumors the club finally settled on a high-upside pitcher from the state of Georgia.
The Braves selected right-handed pitcher Lucas Sims in the first round. Sims hails from Snellville, Georgia, and had a great career at Brookwood High School. He reportedly grew up a big Braves fan from the area and has a very high ceiling on the mound. He is currently signed to play with Clemson next spring, although most believe he will be willing to sign quickly.
Here is a scouting report from ESPN on Sims.
Sims could head to Clemson, but he could also land in the top half of the first round of the draft thanks to a plus fastball and curveball. The breaking ball sits in the low 80s with good shape, depth and late break.
Our Braves blog, Talking Chop, has an in-depth scouting report on the kid.
We will have plenty more on Sims in the coming hours.
For more on the Braves be sure to check out Talking Chop. Visit the SB Nation Atlanta StoryStream for continued updates on the 2012 Draft. Head over to Baseball Nation for all-things baseball.