Looking Ahead: 2026 MLB Draft Potential

The excitement surrounding the 2026 MLB Draft is already building, despite the draft order being determined by this year's lottery at the winter meetings. Among the early highlights is UCLA shortstop, Roch Cholowsky, leading a talent-rich class of high school shortstops including Jacob Lombard, Grady Emerson, and Tyler Spangler.

The Top Talent

On the mound, Florida's right-hander, Liam Peterson, emerges as the leading prospect as we approach spring. Historically, college pitchers show significant improvement year-over-year, making this a critical time for potential draftees.

Draft Order Insights

It's important to note that some teams will not participate in this year's draft lottery. The Colorado Rockies, Washington Nationals, and Los Angeles Angels are all restricted to picking no higher than 10th overall due to the collective bargaining agreement. This prevents teams benefiting from revenue-sharing payouts from gaining the lottery pick for three consecutive years and limits top-six picks across consecutive drafts.

Additionally, the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, New York Yankees, and Philadelphia Phillies are over the luxury-tax threshold, resulting in their first-round picks being moved back ten spots as a penalty. The implications of these financial standings could significantly alter the draft landscape.

Way-Too-Early Mock Draft Highlights

For the sake of an early mock draft, here are some notable names and potential picks:

• 1. Chicago White Sox: SS Roch Cholowsky, UCLA
• 2. Pittsburgh Pirates: SS Jacob Lombard, Gulliver Prep (FL)
• 3. Athletics: RHP Liam Peterson, Florida
• 4. Atlanta Braves: SS Justin Lebron, Alabama
• 5. Baltimore Orioles: OF Drew Burress, Georgia Tech

Cholowsky, who shone in his sophomore season at UCLA, sports impressive stats with a .353 batting average and 23 home runs. Similarly, Lombard, the younger brother of Yankees prospect George Lombard Jr., has shown significant growth potential as a top bat in high school.

This recap offers a glimpse into the upcoming draft's landscape, spotlighting names to watch as teams gear up for what promises to be another exciting selection event.