The New York Mets looked for versatility with their 2020 draft picks, and Matthew Dyer fit right into the mold. Typically a catcher for the University of Arizona, Dyer, can play every position, except pitcher.
Matthew Dyer extends his hitting streak to 20 games with this first inning base knock! He is the 7th player since 1998 to have a hit streak of 20 games or more. #MLBTrainingGround pic.twitter.com/KyYUU9JFds
— Arizona Baseball (@ArizonaBaseball) May 5, 2019
We talked about the good frames for the Mets draft picks, and Dyer is a lengthy 6’4″, 187 pounds. Most people in the organization say he is closer to 200 pounds. Dyer went undrafted in 2019 but had confidence he would earn a selection from an organization during 2020.
Put Him Where He Fits
Over the last few years, Major League Baseball has seen more catchers who move out from behind the plate. Austin Barnes, Willson Contreras, and Willans Astudillo are the most notable utility catchers. Dyer’s defense is good behind the plate with a strong arm, but is not as advanced with framing and receiving. As with most catchers his height, there are questions if he can spend his career there.
If Dyer had to change positions, he would be best suited as a corner outfielder. His arm has been clocked above 90 mph from behind the plate and is faster than most players his height.
?Send it outta here ?.
Matthew Dyer CRUSHES a solo shot for @ArizonaBaseball.
Watch #Pac12BSB: https://t.co/Flkhg1h324 pic.twitter.com/4eTRcbIsKU
— Pac-12 Network (@Pac12Network) March 20, 2019
Dyer started his collegiate career at the University of Oregon. After hitting .268/.355/.362 during his freshman year, he transferred due to missing home and not meshing well with the Ducks program. Dyer’s original plan was to transfer to a Junior College. After breaking a bone in his left hand and unable to transfer credits, he went to the University of Arizona instead.
Due to NCAA transfer rules, he had to sit out the 2018 season but kept himself ready for 2019. Dyer slashed .393/.480/.571 with four home runs over 42 games but missed the final month of the season due to a broken hand. His average still finished third-best in a competitive PAC-12 behind 2019 number one pick Adley Rutschman and 2019 second-round pick, Cameron Cannon.
Over 13 games in 2020, he only batted .204 but had three home runs, which made him an enticing pick despite the slow start. Dyer has a quick swing and barely gets his front foot off the ground on his load. Despite not much power loaded behind the swing, his hand speed and good swing plane, allows him to drive the ball well. For a fourth-round pick in a year with plenty of guessing, the Mets did well with selecting Dyer, who might pan out to be a diamond in the rough.