2026 MLB Draft Day 1 Tracker and Open Thread
Battery Power • • sports
Key Points:
- The 2026 MLB Draft is taking place in Philadelphia, with the Atlanta Braves holding the 9th overall pick for the first time since 2019, as well as an additional first-round pick at 26th overall due to Drake Baldwin winning Rookie of the Year.
- The Braves selected outfielder AJ Gracia from Virginia with the 9th pick, aiming for a top-tier hitter with middle infield potential, and later surprised with the 26th pick by choosing outfielder Carter Beck from Indiana, who impressed at the combine.
- Atlanta continued to focus on pitching talent, drafting high school right-handers Kaiden McCarthy (48th pick), Jensen Hirschkorn (84th pick), and Cole Dennis (112th pick), all noted for their strong arms and projectable frames.
- The draft featured a broad range of top prospects selected by various teams, including shortstops, outfielders, and pitchers from both college and high school ranks, highlighting the depth and diversity of talent in this year's class.
- Battery Power is providing comprehensive coverage of the draft, including expert analysis from Matt Powers on the Braves' selections and ongoing updates as picks are announced over the two-day event.
