After a very successful three-year stint at Brigham Young University, Steve Parker has been drafted by the Oakland A’s in the 5th round.

Parker hit above .340 in all three of his years, where he has combined to hit 25 HR and 114 RBI.  Parker hit .361 this year with 13 doubles, 4 triples and 9 HR.

He was first-team All-Mountain West Conference, was the Conference’s player of the week earlier this year, and was Co-Freshman of the Year for the MWC in 2007.

He stole 6 bags, so he has some speed, and walked 39 times, while striking out 46.

Originally from San Diego, he is another Californian-born draftee, the A’s third in four picks, and has been out of playoff contention for almost a month, so he is probably eager to sign, if that’s what he’ll do.

I like this pick, because he’s a 3B with power, a bit of speed mixed in, and it looks like a great bat.  Although he had 16 errors, which could be a concern, working with fielding instructor Juan Navarette could improve that, and you can’t overlook his bat, bottom line.

Great pick.