MLB Draft Day Looming! Who Will Be the #1 Pick?
The MLB Draft is fast approaching, and the buzz is building! Experts are weighing in, mock drafts are flying, and fans are eager to see which young talents will be joining their favorite teams. The question on everyone's mind: who will be the coveted number one pick?
The Consensus at the Top
While opinions vary, certain names consistently appear at the top of prospect lists. As the draft date nears, these players are becoming increasingly familiar to baseball enthusiasts. According to USA TODAY Sports' Gabe Lacques, about eight players are almost guaranteed to be in the top 10 picks. However, the exact order and which team snags them remains a mystery until the clock starts ticking.
To gain some insight, we've analyzed several prominent mock drafts from sources like USA TODAY, MLB Pipeline, ESPN, The Athletic, and Baseball America. This composite approach helps identify potential frontrunners and understand the prevailing expert opinions.
The Number One Candidates
Two names consistently emerge as potential number one picks for the Washington Nationals: LSU left-handed pitcher Kade Anderson and high school shortstop Ethan Holliday. MLB Pipeline, ESPN, and The Athletic favor Anderson, highlighting his proven track record as a college pitcher. Meanwhile, USA TODAY and Baseball America lean towards Holliday, emphasizing his tremendous upside as a high school hitter.
The Nationals face a classic dilemma: a reliable college pitcher or a high-potential high school hitter? Or could they surprise everyone and go in a completely different direction?
Detroit Tigers' Potential Pick at No. 24
The Detroit Tigers hold the 24th overall pick in the upcoming MLB Draft. Experts suggest they will likely target a high school position player, particularly a left-handed batter. USA TODAY's Gabe Lacques predicts the Tigers will select infielder Xavier Neyens from Mt. Vernon High School in Washington, praising his "big frame and potential big power in a nimble and athletic 6-4 package."
Ultimately, the Tigers' decision remains to be seen, but the speculation and analysis provide a fascinating glimpse into the draft process and the potential future stars of Major League Baseball. The draft, especially the first three rounds, will take place in Atlanta on Sunday, July 13th.