MLB Draft: SF Giants select Tennessee SS Maui Ahuna in the fourth round
The SF Giants selected shortstop Maui Ahuna with their fourth-round (117th overall) pick in the 2023 MLB Draft out of the University of Tennessee. Ahuna does not fit the usual profile the Giants have targetted out of college, but fell far further in the draft than expected and likely was too good of a value to pass up. The slot value for the 117th selection is $569,100.
A Hilo, Hawaii native, Ahuna was considered a potential top-10 pick in the draft after an exceptional 2022 season at Kansas. He hit .396/.479/.634, but struggled mightily against more advanced competition at the Cape Cod League. In hopes of proving he could succeed against better pitching, Ahuna transferred to SEC powerhouse Tennessee. During his time in the Big 12,
This spring, Ahuna hit .312/.425/.537 with 20 doubles and eight home runs in 53 games. An above-average defensive shortstop who should be able to stick long-term with some pop and speed, fans might be confused why he was available more than 100 picks into the draft. Ahuna has all the makings of a first-round pick.
Well, his hit tool lags significantly behind his other tools. Ahuna struck out 77 times in 247 plate appearances this season, an alarming rate for a college player. Ahuna struggled with pitch recognition, and some scouts believe he will also need to rebuild his swing to even reach the upper minors. Still, in the fourth round, Ahuna's pedigree is strong enough to justify taking that chance.
The Giants farm system lacked left-handed power prior to this year's draft. Now, between Ahuna, Bryce Eldridge, Walker Martin, and Cole Foster, they've added four prospects with some pop from the left side of the plate.
The Giants will have some time before their next selection, which will be the 153rd overall pick (fifth round). We'll see who else joins the SF Giants 2023 MLB Draft class.
