Red Sox select Williams Jerez in 2nd round

With the 81st overall pick in the draft, the Red Sox have selected left-handed outfielder Williams Jerez from Grand Street (NY) High School.

One of the top prospects out of New York state, Jerez has great upside with the bat. He opened eyes while playing for the Hank Steinbrenner-sponsored Hank's Yanks team that gives underprivileged players a chance to show off their skills. Many thought he would be selected by the Yankees for this reason.

Possessing raw batspeed, power, and speed, he is the type of athlete that the Red Sox often like to take a chance on. The 6-foot-4, 190-pounder projects to be a five-tool player. How much he fills out as he ages will determine whether or not he is able to stick in center field long term.

A coach said he is likely to turn pro as long as he receives a strong offer, because he "wants to help his family."

Tweet