2023 MLB Draft Profile: Colin Houck

Should the Marlins select Houck if he’s available with their first-round draft pick?

Position: SS

Height: 6’2″

Weight: 190 pounds

School: Parkview HS (OR)

Commitment: Mississippi State

Colin Houck is a 6’2”, 190-pound shortstop out of the talent-rich Georgia area. Houck is a highly-touted middle infield prospect that ranks very highly on some draft boards. On MLB Pipeline, Houck is the twelfth-ranked prospect and the third-ranked shortstop prospect in the draft. 

Houck is also the fifth-ranked high school prospect in the 2023 MLB Draft class. On Perfect Game, Houck is the thirteenth-ranked prospect and the fourth-ranked shortstop in the country. He’s also the #1 ranked prospect in Peach State. 

Houck was a two-sport star athlete in high school as he was also a three-star quarterback, but is only signed to play baseball at Mississippi State. It’s unlikely Houck makes it to Starkville as he’s a projected early-to-mid first round pick. 

Strengths

• Plus arm strength 
• Good hitting tools
• Good leadership skills
• Solid defensive player
• Raw power potential

Weaknesses

• Pull-happy hitter
• Has some swing-and-miss and chases outside the zone
• Likely will move to third at the next level

Pro Comparison: José Miranda

Projection: Top 20 pick

Bottom Line

The Miami Marlins might not be able to draft a major need so they would have to take the best player available in the draft. Colin Houck could be the best available when the Marlins make their first round selection at pick #10. 

The Marlins would add to their infield depth in the farm system, but Houck has some work before being considered a top prospect in the Marlins farm system. If he can cut down on the swing-and-miss and drive the ball to all fields, Houck could be an outstanding selection for the Fish. 

Photo courtesy of colin_houck/Instagram