May 31, 1998

Bubba Crosby OF Rice

He is expected to become the fourth first-round draft choice from Rice in the last four years, joining Jose Cruz Jr., Matt Anderson and Lance Berkman as top selections. At 5-11, Crosby is shorter than the typical first-round OF, but he has exceptional power and he hits lefthanded. He hit .401 this season with 23 HR and 84 RBIs. Crosby is listed by Baseball America as the No. 3 power hitter among college OFs. He is seen as a rare five-tool player who can hit for average, hit for power, run the bases, play defense and throw well. Crosby set a school record this season by hitting at least one homer in seven consecutive games.