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MLB Draft 2011 -- Texas Rangers select LHP Kevin Matthews

With the #33 selection in the 2011 Major League Baseball Draft, the Texas Rangers have selected lefthanded pitcher Kevin Matthews, a high school pitcher from Georgia.

Baseball America had him at #105 overall, and says he's 5'10", 180 lbs., with a fastball that touches 94-95 but generally is around the 87-90 range, and a good curveball.

He's thought to be a tough sign, because of his commitment to Virginia, and BA says the consensus is that he is a future reliever.  BA also compares him to Kasey Kiker and Robbie Ross, both of whom were high draft picks by the Rangers.

This is a surprising pick, and would appear to be a reach, but the Rangers had to have been concerned that either Washington, Toronto or Boston -- picking 34, 35, and 36 -- would grab Matthews in the next three picks if they didn't get him here.  Intriguing choice, and risky.