Baseball America has released its latest MLB mock draft following the College World Series and the MLB Draft Combine, marking the fifth version of this season’s predictions. The landscape of the first round remains largely consistent, but several adjustments and new names are featured as teams refine their draft strategies.
Team preferences could significantly influence which high school shortstops or college pitchers are chosen in the initial picks. If most teams favor one category, it may leave unexpected players available when the Chicago White Sox select 10th overall.
In this mock draft, Kade Anderson, a left-handed pitcher from LSU, has emerged as the new top pick for the Washington Nationals. They have been mulling over either Anderson or Ethan Holliday, the class’s top-ranked player, for the first pick, but Scott Boras, who represents both, complicates the decision.
Here’s a breakdown of the first ten picks:
1. **Nationals** – Kade Anderson (LHP, LSU): The Nationals are closely weighing their options between Anderson and Ethan Holliday, creating intriguing dynamics in their draft strategy.
2. **Angels** – Liam Doyle (LHP, Tennessee): With Anderson potentially going first, Doyle is a solid option for the Angels, who have shown interest in him throughout the spring.
3. **Mariners** – Aiva Arquette (SS, Oregon State): Arquette remains a consistent choice for Seattle, although there could be other pitching options on their radar.
4. **Rockies** – Ethan Holliday (SS, Stillwater HS): Holliday is a highly favored choice if he is still available, reflecting the buzz surrounding him.
5. **Cardinals** – Eli Willits (SS, Fort Cobb-Broxton HS): The Cardinals may start a wave of high school shortstops with Willits.
6. **Pirates** – Seth Hernandez (RHP, Corona HS): Hernandez still stands as the top-ranked pitcher, making him a strong pick for the Pirates.
7. **Marlins** – Billy Carlson (SS, Corona HS): The Marlins are heavily linked to high school shortstops, and Carlson reflects their targets.
8. **Blue Jays** – JoJo Parker (SS, Purvis HS): Parker is also in high demand among teams looking to draft shortstops.
9. **Reds** – Ike Irish (C/OF, Auburn): Irish’s name continues to rise as teams consider their hitting options.
10. **White Sox** – Jamie Arnold (LHP, Florida State): Chicago could prioritize college arms, favoring Arnold due to his pitch profile.
The accompanying trends showcase a notable focus on high school talent, especially among shortstops, which may shape the outcomes of this year’s draft. With various colleges and high schools represented, this mock draft illustrates the potential for surprises as teams finalize their strategies.
This draft presents an exciting opportunity for young players to make their mark in professional baseball. As we approach the draft, there remains ample speculation and anticipation around who will ultimately fill these coveted positions on big league rosters.