Phillies Select Larry Greene with Top Draft Pick

On Monday night in Secaucus, NJ, the Phillies selected one of the few players that was actually present at the MLB Network studios. With the 39th overall pick, announced by short-season Williamsport Crosscutters manager Mickey Morandini, the Phillies selected high school outfielder Larry Greene.

Described as a slugger with great tools, Greene stands 6-feet-1-inch tall and is listed at 235 pounds. Greene was an AFLAC all-American in 2010 out of Berrien County High School.

According to the Phillies, Greene posted a .536 average in 30 games with 11 doubles, 19 homers, 52 RBI and 37 walks this season.

At times, the 18-year-old Greene has dabbled with switch hitting and playing third base, but both could likely be discontinued as his natural side (lefty) has proven to be superior and the Phillies will prefer Greene to move forward exclusively in the outfield.

Greene, whose mother passed away late last year, asserted on TV, following the announcement of his selection, that his mother was watching the night’s events. Greene’s father, Larry Greene, Sr., was then brought on stage by MLB Network host Hazel Mae and the men embraced.

Here’s a great video by Ryan Dean of Greene showing power at the plate.

And thanks to Josh Norris of the Trentonian, here’s video of Greene speaking to the media immediately after being drafted.

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Jay Floyd is PhilliesNation’s minor league contributor. You can read more from Jay, by visiting his site, PhoulBallz.com.