The 2026 MLB Draft has come and gone, leaving baseball enthusiasts buzzing with excitement over the potential future stars. In this draft, we witnessed some remarkable steals that could shape the league for years to come. Let's dive into the top picks from each of the first 10 rounds, as highlighted by Jim Callis and Jonathan Mayo on the Pipeline Podcast.
Round 1: A Surprising Lefty
Gio Rojas, the highly-rated left-handed pitcher, was a surprising pick for the Rangers at No. 16. Mayo's insight reveals the Rangers' bold move, considering their usual draft strategy. This pick showcases a shift in their approach, opting for a high school pitching talent they believed to be the best in the class. It's a gamble, but one that could pay off handsomely if Rojas lives up to his potential.
Round 2: The Reclassified Star
Rocco Maniscalco, a young and talented shortstop, caught the Cardinals' attention in Round 2. Mayo's praise for his defensive skills and potential to play shortstop for years to come is noteworthy. What makes this pick intriguing is the idea that a first-round talent slipped into the second round. This could be a huge win for the Cardinals if Maniscalco fulfills his promise.
Rounds 3-5: Power and Potential
The next few rounds saw a focus on power and potential. Gavin Grahovac, a third baseman with an impressive bat, was picked by the Angels in Round 3. Callis' comments highlight his raw power and resilience after an injury. Will Brick, a highly-rated high school catcher, was a steal for the Blue Jays in Round 4, according to Mayo. The Phillies' selection of Will Gasparino in Round 5, a 6-foot-6 outfielder with All-Star potential, showcases their belief in his tools despite some swing-and-miss concerns.
Rounds 6-7: Athleticism and Velocity
Kyle Johnson, a left-handed pitcher with raw talent, was a surprising pick for the Rays in Round 6. Mayo's analysis emphasizes his athleticism and premium stuff, leaving room for development. Round 7 introduced Savion Sims, a towering right-handed pitcher who can hit triple digits on the radar gun. Callis' excitement about Sims' potential is palpable, suggesting he could be a future ace.
Rounds 8-10: Hidden Gems
The later rounds often reveal hidden gems, and this draft was no exception. Will Plunkett, a tall shortstop with room for growth, was picked by the Orioles in Round 8. Mayo's assessment hints at untapped power potential. Martin Shelar, a high school outfielder with impressive power, was a steal for the Red Sox in Round 9, as Callis notes. The Cardinals' selection of Nick Bonn, an unranked relief pitcher with a powerful fastball, in Round 10 could be a shrewd move, as Mayo speculates about his bullpen potential.
What makes this draft particularly intriguing is the mix of high-ceiling prospects and potential late-round gems. The early rounds showcased teams taking calculated risks on players with exceptional talent, while the later rounds highlighted the art of scouting and identifying hidden value. Personally, I find the draft to be a fascinating blend of science and art, where teams must balance analytics with gut instincts. The 2026 MLB Draft has set the stage for exciting player development stories, and I can't wait to see these young talents make their mark on the league.
