Texas Rangers select with #8 pick Josh Jung

The Texas Rangers, with the #8 pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, have selected Josh Jung, a third baseman from Texas Tech University. You can read our pre-draft write-up on Jung here.

Jung is a righthanded hitter with gets good marks for his hit tool, but who has some scouts questioning his power and whether he can stick at third base. He has the arm to play at third, but if he does have to move, first base or a corner outfield spot would be an option.

Jung was originally seen as a top 10 pick, but dropped down the boards as draft day approached. He’s advised by Scott Boras, and there were differing reports on whether he would agree to a below-slot deal at #8.

Fangraphs has Jung at #12 on their board. Baseball America has Jung at #17 on their board. Keith Law has Jung at #18 on his board. MLB Pipeline has Jung at #16.

The general consensus seems to be that he will hit, with the main question about his future being how much power he will have. If the Rangers can get him to tap into his power potential, this should be a solid pick.

At #41, the Rangers took Baylor third baseman Davis Wendzel.

At #50, the Rangers took UCLA RHP Ryan Garcia.