The Los Angeles Dodgers kicked off their 2025 MLB Draft by selecting left-handed pitcher Zach Root with their first pick, landing him at No. 40 overall. Root, who had a notable season as a junior at Arkansas, posted a 3.62 ERA while striking out 126 batters across 99⅓ innings in 19 starts. He carried a healthy 30-percent strikeout rate and issued 35 walks. His impressive performance earned him first-team All-SEC honors and recognition as a second-team All-American by Perfect Game.
According to Keith Law of The Athletic, Root was ranked as the 29th-best prospect in the draft. His repertoire includes a true five-pitch mix, and he notably incorporates both a cutter and a slider into his game. While he throws his fastball about 37% of the time, some assessments suggest he may rely on it too heavily considering the hard contact he sometimes allows. Root can reach speeds up to 98 mph, typically sitting between 93-95 mph. Notably, he has shown the ability to maintain his velocity deep into games and possesses the tools necessary to succeed as a starting pitcher.
Root was also recognized by other scouting sources, being ranked 40th by Baseball America, 48th by ESPN, and 42nd by MLB Pipeline. The recommended slot value for the 40th pick stands at $2,443,600.
In a strategic move, just after selecting Root, the Dodgers drafted his teammate, outfielder Charles Davalan, with the 41st overall pick.
This selection highlights the Dodgers’ commitment to enhancing their roster with promising young talent. By choosing two players from the same college program, the team may be banking on the chemistry and familiarity they share, potentially accelerating their development in the professional league. The future seems bright for these young athletes as they join a storied franchise known for its success.