MLB All-Star week is set to kick off in Atlanta, and excitement is building not just for the festivities surrounding the All-Star Game, but also for the future of baseball. Just days prior to the big event, Commissioner Rob Manfred will host the 2025 MLB Draft, a critical moment for teams looking to strengthen their rosters with new talent.
As anticipation grows, MLB Pipeline has released its latest mock draft, showcasing a significant shift in the rankings. Among the key highlights, three pitchers have risen dramatically within the top five picks, and there’s particular focus on what the St. Louis Cardinals will choose with the fifth overall pick.
The top pick is projected to be Kade Anderson, a left-handed pitcher from LSU. His impressive performances during the College World Series may have boosted his stock, making him a frontrunner for the Washington Nationals, who have a history of selecting LSU players early. According to MLB Pipeline, Anderson fills immediate needs and could join the Nationals sooner than other options like Jackson Holliday.
Following Anderson, the Los Angeles Angels are expected to pick Liam Doyle, a lefty from Tennessee who can potentially expedite his path to the Majors. Doyle’s talent and recent performance make him an ideal match for the Angels’ strategy of quickly advancing their top draft picks.
The Seattle Mariners may select Seth Hernandez, a right-hander from Corona, CA, as the first high school player in the top five. Despite concerns about drafting high school pitchers, the Mariners see Hernandez’s immense talent as a valuable addition to their lineup.
Next, the Colorado Rockies are anticipated to draft Ethan Holliday, continuing the family legacy in professional baseball. He is seen as a strong candidate for the Rockies, especially if he lands in their range.
Finally, the St. Louis Cardinals might opt for Ike Irish, a versatile C/OF from Auburn, who was among the finest hitters in college baseball. Irish’s potential willingness to take a discount could play a role in the Cardinals’ decision-making process.
The mock draft also contains predictions for positions beyond the top five, with other teams looking at a variety of pitching and positional players, demonstrating the depth of talent available in this draft.
The MLB Draft presents a significant opportunity for teams to shape their future, and the 2025 draft is no exception with its array of skilled players ready to make an impact. The excitement surrounding the draft complements the All-Star week atmosphere, as fans look forward to both celebrating current stars and welcoming the next generation of talent into Major League Baseball.