With the 21st pick in the draft, the Royals have selected high-school starting pitcher Ashe Russell. He was projected by Baseball America to go 14th overall to the Braves, while Keith Law had him 18th to the Giants, and MLB.com thought he'd wind up in Atlanta as well, but 28th with their compensation pick.

The Royals are likely happy with the opportunity to take someone with the upside of Russell less than a year after reaching the World Series. Russell is thought to have slipped a little bit compared to where he was supposed to be picked.

Russell flashes a mid 90's fastball, and a plus slider to go along with it. His only other pitch is a changeup, but has rarely needed to use it as his other two pitches have been more than enough to overpower high school hitters. According to Fangraphs' scouting profile, Russell's "arm is a little late to catch up with his body" and thus carries the normal risks associated with prep arms. He was originally committed to Notre Dame, but rescinded that to switch to Texas A&M. His signability doesn't seem to be in question however, and should start his professional career soon.

Some scouts believe with his low three-quarters slot that he may be better suited for a bullpen role, but his immediate future is as a starter. He's 6'4", 195 lb, and will likely be able to add some velocity once he grows into his frame.