Luke Gold watched firsthand the development of outfielder Sal Frelick and infielder Cody Morissette into first and second-round picks, respectively, last year. The experience of playing with the two highly-talented position players has helped Gold.
This year, Gold serves as Boston College’s leader and one of the team’s best hitters. His development at the plate has caused him to receive interest in anticipation of July’s MLB draft.
Scouts rave about Gold’s offensive skills and defensive versatility. Due to his skill set, Gold projects as a potential early-round pick in the draft.
“That is a big goal of mine, but in the end, I have to do what I can to get better every single day,” Gold said. “If I can have that mindset and be that team leader, then hopefully, those things will play out how they are supposed to.”
After his freshman season ended early due to the pandemic in 2020, Gold has been Boston College’s top hitter over the last two years.
Last season, Gold hit .316 with 15 doubles, nine home runs and 45 RBIs in 177 at-bats in 44 games. Gold has performed even better this spring, hitting .322 with 19 doubles, seven home runs and 33 RBIs in 174 at-bats in 46 games.
Gold’s calling card is his offensive skills. The 6-foot-1, 210-pound right-handed hitter uses a compact swing to drive the ball into the gaps. He has plate discipline and a sound approach at the plate. He also displays notable bat-to-ball skills and hits for average and power.
Gold is an offensive-first player who isn’t flashy but has proven success hitting against premium velocity.
“I feel like I am someone who can hit for average and some power too,” Gold said. “I have shown my power a little bit this year. My bat is something I would say is my best tool.”
Defensively, Gold has proven experience playing across the infield. He played shortstop in high school and has spent time at first base, second base, and third base in college. He is comfortable at all four infield positions but likely profiles best at second base long term.
Gold has solid arm strength and quality defensive instincts. Major-league teams will value his ability to play multiple positions.
“Overall, my defense is something I want to improve,” Gold said. “I want to be more consistent and make the tough plays. I really want to do everything right on the defensive side of the ball. That way, I am a complete player.”
With three weeks left in the regular season, Boston College hasn’t performed up to its expectations this spring. Boston College has an 18-28 record this season and hopes to finish the season on a high note.
“We just need to appreciate every day and the opportunity to play the game we love,” Gold said. “We just need to have fun and control what we can control.”
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Dan Zielinski III has covered the MLB draft for seven years. He has interviewed 356 of the top draft prospects in that period, including four No. 1 overall picks. Multiple publications, including Baseball America, USA Today, MLB.com and The Arizona Republic, have quoted his work, while he has appeared on radio stations as a “MLB draft expert.” Follow him on Twitter @DanZielinski3.
