Scouting grades 20–80
45Hit
55Power
45Run
50Field
45Arm
Ford was a draft eligible sophmore who was a projected top 100 pick heading into the 2025 MLB draft. He elected to head back to college for 2026, transferring from Virginia to Tennessee where he's expected to be one of the top transfer bats in the SEC.
Ford is a big, physical right handed hitter with a strong, violent swing from the right side. It's an unconvetional swing that can stiffen up, limiting adjustability, but Ford has done a solid job in the bat to ball department so far. He posted a sub 20% whiff rate in 2025, and an in zone whiff rate approaching 12%. The approach is flawed, as Ford will chase pitches outside the zone at a high rate, limiting his walks. Ford's power number took a dip in 2025, as he showed off limited feel to lift the ball in the air. Regardless, it's plus raw power, with exit velocities that have peaked well north of 110 mph. The clay with the bat is exciting.
Ford is a below average runner who will likely stick at first base at the next level. He's athletic enough that some think there's a corner outfield outcome, but until he can prove fit for the role, first base looks like his most likely landing spot. Ford will be older on draft day, 21.9 years old.
