3 Things Cardinals Fans Need to Know About 2020 First-Round Pick Jordan Walker

The St. Louis Cardinals were entranced by the awe-inspiring power of high school third baseman Jordan Walker, who they added with the 21st overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft. Walker might need some time in the minor leagues before he is ready for primetime, but he has all the physical tools the Cardinals could hope for in a potential franchise cornerstone. St. Louis added one of the most interesting prospects in the draft with the selection of Walker.

3. He Comes From a Very Smart Family

Academics clearly reign supreme in the Walker household. Walker's father is an MIT alum, while his mother received a masters in business economics from Washington University in St. Louis and a masters in teaching from Emory University. Walker himself committed to play his college ball at Duke, showing that he didn't sacrifice grades on his path to the first round.

2. His Power is Among the Best in This Draft Class

At 6-5 and 220 pounds, the 17-year-old stud looks more like an NFL tight end than an MLB third baseman. The power is effortless, and his ability to control the strike zone and work the count stands out for a player his age. While there are some concerns about what position he'll play, as some think he's more suited to the outfield or first base as opposed to third base, what can't be denied is the fact that he can absolutely murder a ball when he squares it up.

1. He Has Earned Comparisons to Kris Bryant

Comparing Bryant, an MVP and former No. 2 overall pick, to Walker sounds like hyperbole, but the more you look at how easily Walker supplies power to all fields and plays a solid defensive third base, the comparisons look more justified. If being compared to Bryant doesn't get Cardinals fans excited about how high Walker's ceiling is, nothing will.