Though Mercer outfielder Kyle Lewis has been perhaps the most popular name associated with the Atlanta Braves throughout the draft process, a report has surfaced that the team could be going in a different direction with the number three pick. That direction involves high school right-hander Ian Anderson.
Source: Braves have a deal in place with Ian Anderson for the third pick, but they are still considering other options.
— Jesse Burkhart (@jesseburkhart) June 9, 2016
At least part of the motivation behind targeting Anderson would appear to be cost savings on the pick versus the "slot" price assigned to the number three pick, and this phenomenon was mentioned in Keith Law's final mock draft on Thursday morning. However, it also appears as if the Braves are moving away from Lewis, regardless of whether Anderson is the pick at number three.
It doesn't sound like the Braves will take Kyle Lewis if he's available. Corey Ray or Ian Anderson are now the most likely targets at No. 3.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) June 9, 2016
Mark Bowman of MLB.com weighs in on the Lewis situation, including a reference to Louisville outfielder Corey Ray as a potential target should the Braves pass on the opportunity to come in under slot on Anderson. In addition, it appears that Atlanta is not the only organization moving away from Kyle Lewis as the draft approaches.
It sounds like at least two teams have dropped off Lewis after recent workouts.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) June 9, 2016
More details will be emerging the next few hours, but for now, the Kyle Lewis-to-Atlanta hype train seems to be careening off the track. Stay tuned.