Sibling rivalry? Brothers become division foes after Indians select Brad Zimmer
Brad Zimmer has never faced his older brother, Kyle, in a game. Everyone in his family is hoping that will change in a couple years.
"My parents are excited to watch us both play against each other. That day will eventually come and I'm excited about it," Brad said during a conference call after being selected in the first round by the Indians on Thursday night.
The University of San Francisco outfielder was the 21st overall selection in Thursday's major-league draft. Two years ago Kyle, who is a right-handed pitcher, was the fifth overall selection by the Royals.
With the exception of minor-league games during spring training, the only way both could face each other is in the majors.
"I'd like to see that matchup, it would be good. Hopefully Bradley can take me out of the yard," said Indians Director of Scouting Brad Grant.
Zimmer batted .368 with seven home runs, 31 RBI and 21 stolen bases for the Dons this past season. He can play right or center and batted leadoff most of this year. Zimmer was also the postseason MVP in the Cape Cod League last summer and one of 30 finalists for the Golden Spike award.
Grant indicated that Zimmer would remain in center and said he has the chance to be an above-average center fielder because of his speed and range.
"My power isn't there but I know it is going to come. The tools I have worked with the last couple years are only going to improve," Zimmer said. "I'm going to get faster and stronger. I'm just looking to go out and compete."
Hopefully Zimmer's road in the minors will be easier than his brother's. Kyle Zimmer is considered to be the top prospect in the Royals' system but has been beset by injuries. He was supposed to start the year in Double-A with the hope that he could be in the majors by September but he hasn't pitched this season. The latest injury is a strained lat that is likely to have him out until the All-Star break.
