School: Mississippi State University; Class: Junior
Position: CF; B/T: L/R
Height: 6-2; Weight: 205
Previously Drafted: N/A
High School: Spain Park High School
| Hit | Power | SB | Patience | Glove | Overall |
| 50 | 45 | 50 | 55 | 50 | 45 |
Background: A two-year All-State performer during his time at Spain Park High School, Ledbetter, a centerfielder, began his collegiate career as a member of the Samford Bulldogs, home to just one first round pick in their history (Phil Ervin, 2013). Ledbetter earned sparse playing time with the Southern Conference-based school as a true freshman, hitting .271/.339/.441 with eight doubles and a triple in only 65 plate appearances.
After torching the Great Lakes Summer Collegiate League (.415/.470/.717), Ledbetter continued to swing a hot stick for the Bulldogs during his sophomore campaign: he mashed .318/.407/.640 with 16 doubles, two triples, 16 homeruns, and 14 stolen bases (in 17 total attempts).
And, once again, the lefty-swinging outfielder shredded the summer ball competition. This time, though, it was the New England Collegiate Baseball League (.365/.464/.654).
Prior to his junior campaign, Ledbetter transferred to SEC powerhouse Mississippi State University. And he flourished. He slugged .320/.452/.574 with 12 doubles, one triple, 12 homeruns, and a career best 17 stolen bases (vs. just one caught stealing).
Scouting Report: Consider the following:
- Since 2011, only nine SEC hitters met the following criteria in a season (min. 225 PA): .320/.440/.560 with a walk rate of at least 15% and a sub-15% strikeout rate. Those nine hitters: Dylan Crews, Andrew Benintendi, Nick Senzel, Wyatt Langford, Mikie Mahtook, Will Toffey, Josh Rivera, Kyle Martin, and – of course – Colton Ledbetter.
Tremendous bat-to-ball skills backed up by a patient approach at the plate. Ledbetter’s swing is a bit long and he doesn’t figure to hit for much of an average in the professional ranks, likely hovering in the .255 range. But he’s also a very well-rounded ballplayer. He has a nose for first base, decent enough power to keep defenses and pitchers honest and good speed. Fringy starting material that’s very likely to slide into a fourth or fifth outfield role.
Ceiling: 1.0- to 1.5-win player
Risk: Moderate
Grade: Second / Third Round
