Best picks in the 2026 MLB Draft Pipeline Podcast
MLB.com • • sports
Key Points:
- The Rangers selected Gio Rojas, a top-ranked high school left-handed pitcher, at No. 16 in the first round, surprising many given their typical draft strategy.
- The Yankees picked Hunter Dietz at No. 35 despite his limited college innings and injury history, with analysts impressed by his potential and recent strong fall performance.
- Several players were highlighted as steals in later rounds, including Cardinals' Rocco Maniscalco (2nd round), Angels' Gavin Grahovac (3rd round), and Blue Jays' Will Brick (4th round), all seen as having first- or second-round talent.
- Notable power hitters like Phillies' Will Gasparino (5th round) and Red Sox's Martin Shelar (9th round) were praised for their raw power and athleticism despite being selected outside the early rounds.
- Pitchers with high upside such as Rays' Kyle Johnson (6th round), Guardians' Savion Sims (7th round), and Cardinals' Nick Bonn (10th round) were identified as intriguing picks due to their raw stuff and potential bullpen roles.
