The Los Angeles Dodgers selected a collegiate player with their first-round selection in the MLB Draft for a second consecutive year — this time nabbing right-handed pitcher Bobby Miller out of Louisville with the No. 29 overall pick.
Miller, who was previously selected by the Baltimore Orioles in the 38th round of the 2017 MLB Draft, made a name for himself in college with his electric fastball, earning many accolades along the way.
In 2018, he was named a Freshman All-American (Collegiate Baseball Newspaper, D1Baseball, Perfect Game), in addition to being selected to the All-ACC Third Team and 2018 ACC All-Freshman Team.
Now as he gets set to begin his professional career, Miller revealed that many accomplished Major League starters have influenced him — new Dodgers teammate Walker Buehler included.
“Growing up, mechanic-wise, release point, somewhat Verlander as I’m releasing,” Miller began. “But I can’t really think of anyone I compare my style to. Really, just my favorite guys to watch and take notes on are Walker Buehler, Jacob deGrom, Gerrit Cole and guys like that.
“Really, just watch a lot of video on myself, too. Point out things I’m doing wrong and what I can improve on. That’s what I’ve been doing a lot of this year. I’ve been doing better and working harder than ever.”
Despite their notable size difference, Miller believes he shares the same on-the-field demeanor as Buehler. “He’s so electric on the mound,” Miller noted.
“That’s how I try to be, too. His competitiveness, that’s something I take a lot of pride in, is being the biggest competitor on the field. There’s absolutely no doubt he’s the biggest competitor on the field when he’s on the mound.
“He’s not a big guy but the way he makes himself look so intimidating on the mound is something I really love to watch. And obviously his stuff is just way more than advanced.”
Because of his competitive nature, Buehler is prone to unleash an expletive every now and then. Miller admitted he is also susceptible of doing so during outings.
“I can definitely do that,” he said of the possibility of one of his swear words being picked up on television.
“No doubt. I’m the biggest competitor on the field when I’m on the mound.”
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