Mock Draft Season Begins
Jim Callis kicked off the mock draft season just over a week ago, and now it’s my turn to contribute for the first time this spring.
Key Themes for the Draft
Although we have a long way to go and many uncertainties regarding the first round, several recurring themes are expected as the Draft approaches on July 13. One prominent theme is the abundance of high school shortstops and infielders, with as many as ten projected to be selected in the top 27 picks.
Additionally, college pitching is rising to the forefront. Each year, there’s hope that standout college arms will emerge, but this hasn’t occurred frequently recently. Over the last two years, just four college pitchers were chosen in the first round. However, this year, four may be selected in the top 10, a feat not seen since 2020.
Top Picks Projection
1. Nationals: Ethan Holliday, SS/3B, Stillwater (Okla.) HS
Holliday remains at the top for the second mock in a row. The Nationals are exploring various options, evaluating around seven or eight players, including Holliday and Seth Hernandez, but they have not yet committed to a selection.
2. Angels: Jamie Arnold, LHP, Florida State
The Angels have consistently chosen a college player in the first round for six consecutive drafts. This year, they may pick from left-handers like Arnold, Liam Doyle, Kade Anderson, or the top collegiate bat, Aiva Arquette. For now, Arnold is the favored choice due to his strong track record, although his performance has varied this spring.
3. Mariners: Liam Doyle, LHP, Tennessee
Doyle, one of the top lefties, recently struck out 12 in a seven-inning outing against Vanderbilt. The Mariners are also considering other left-handers, as well as college righty Kyson Witherspoon and the top hitters Arquette and Hernandez.
4. Rockies: Aiva Arquette, SS, Oregon State
The Rockies may opt for a college pitcher, like Anderson, or go for a hitter, with Arquette being a strong shortstop candidate boasting 17 home runs and an OPS exceeding 1.100.
5. Cardinals: Kade Anderson, LHP, Louisiana State
The Cardinals are leaning toward a college arm, with Anderson being the likely choice if the top four picks go in the predicted order. If three left-handers are taken before this pick, Witherspoon might be an option, and this could be where high school shortstop Eli Willits enters the conversation.
