I've been leary of making my opinion on Payton's catching for awhile now, but I think it's pretty clear his MLB future needs a position change.
To start, he hasn't had to work well with pitchers because the pitches are called from the dugout. Pro scouts really don't know what to expect with Payton on this aspect of catching.
Secondly, he's not very accurate or strong throwing the ball to second base. He's had several off throws into center field this season. He's alright and not a liability, but he's no Henry Davis or Will Smith. He's also not thrown the ball consistently to first base on bunts, etc..
Now as a hitter, he's got huge potential at the next level. I just don't see him behind the plate. It will interesting if he plays some outfield once he's drafted?
As for his college career I'm sure he will remain behind the plate. He just needs to shore up his throwing the ball.
To start, he hasn't had to work well with pitchers because the pitches are called from the dugout. Pro scouts really don't know what to expect with Payton on this aspect of catching.
Secondly, he's not very accurate or strong throwing the ball to second base. He's had several off throws into center field this season. He's alright and not a liability, but he's no Henry Davis or Will Smith. He's also not thrown the ball consistently to first base on bunts, etc..
Now as a hitter, he's got huge potential at the next level. I just don't see him behind the plate. It will interesting if he plays some outfield once he's drafted?
As for his college career I'm sure he will remain behind the plate. He just needs to shore up his throwing the ball.