The shortstop position is often regarded as a cornerstone in Major League Baseball (MLB) draft classes, with teams continuously seeking talent at this pivotal spot. Given the evolution of players in the professional ranks, proficient shortstops often transition seamlessly to various positions. Thus, teams remain undeterred even if they already have depth at shortstop; they recognize the viability of each drafted player to flourish at multiple fielding spots. With the 2026 draft approaching, let’s delve into the top ten shortstops poised to make waves.

Roch Cholowsky: The Consensus No. 1

Leading the pack is Roch Cholowsky, an outstanding talent from UCLA. Born on April 5, 2005, and standing at 5'11" and weighing 190 lbs, Cholowsky has solidified his reputation with an impressive .353/.480/.710 batting average, accompanied by 23 home runs and 45 walks against just 30 strikeouts in the previous season. This year, he has maintained a phenomenal .1.163 OPS while competing on a nationally ranked team. Scouts regard him as the top college shortstop prospect since Troy Tulowitzki, boasting remarkable power and contact skills, as well as invaluable leadership qualities. His upper-tier defensive capabilities also emphasize that he can sustain the shortstop role for many years ahead. Projected pick range: consensus No. 1 overall.

Luke Kennedy: The Breakout Star

Next in line is Luke Kennedy, a 21-year-old phenom who has truly emerged this season. Born on April 5, 2005, and measuring 5'11" and 190 lbs, his exceptional performance catapulted him into attention, as he recorded a .361/.464/.757 line with 20 home runs and 67 RBIs. Following LASIK eye surgery, he notably reduced his strikeout rate from 30.3% to 18.1%. With a successful transition from second base and third base to shortstop, his impressive athleticism and offensive potential position him as a versatile asset for any MLB franchise. Projected pick range: No. 60-75, on the rise.

J.D. Bell: A Strong Performer

J.D. Bell, another 21-year-old shortstop, currently offers a solid batting line of .354/.535/.584 and has showcased his resilience by playing through a shoulder injury this season. Standing at 6'3" and weighing 190 lbs, this draft-eligible sophomore has demonstrated his instincts and athleticism to handle shortstop competently. His prowess both offensively and defensively suggests a promising career ahead, with teams likely to draft him in the No. 15-25 range.

Emerson Lombard: The Rising Star

Emerson Lombard is considered a significant prospect with a power ceiling that could define his career. Born on September 27, 2007, and measuring 6'3" at 185 lbs, Lombard brings a combination of speed and strength, highlighted by a swing-and-miss nature in his playing style. This high school talent has the capability to excel at shortstop, emphasizing quick defensive reactions and a strong arm, providing clear potential for a middle-of-the-order role. Projected pick range: No. 2-10.

Damian Ruiz: The Defensive Ace

Another high school sensation, Damian Ruiz, born on March 28, 2007, stands at 5'10" and weighs 168 lbs. His exceptional defensive skills make him stand out as the best defensive shortstop in the current high school class. Even if his offensive abilities do not emerge as dominant, his strong bat-to-ball skills and solid mechanics at the plate reinforce his value. Projected pick range: Nos. 25-40.

Grady Emerson: Versatile and Reliable

Grady Emerson, born on February 21, 2008, and measuring 6'2" at 180 lbs, is gaining recognition for his impressive hit tool and advanced approach at the plate. A contact hitter with 25-home run power potential, he holds a strong profile defensively as well, demonstrating proficient results on both sides of the ball. His all-around potential positions him as a likely pick within Nos. 2-5.

Ryan Spangler: The Solid Prospect

With a polished swing and well-rounded approach, Ryan Spangler ranks as one of the safer offensive profiles in this shortstop class. Born on October 1, 2007, and standing 6'3" tall, weighing 195 lbs, Spangler shows versatility in his abilities; while there remain some concerns about his agility, he consistently displays remarkable instincts essential for maintaining a strong presence at shortstop. Projected pick range: No. 25-40.

Dylan Becker: The Path to Success

Dylan Becker, another 21-year-old, has demonstrated consistent excellence at the plate, amassing a .353/.452/.612 career batting average across 134 games. Standing at 6'3" and weighing 190 lbs, his instincts as a shortstop bring about expectations for significant development within the next level. His projected pick range leans toward Nos. 10-25.

Kason Lebron: Potential Superstar

Kason Lebron, entering the spring as a contender for the top draft pick, has navigated some fluctuations in his stats, which include a strikeout-rate around 20%. Nonetheless, at 6'2" and 180 lbs, his potential for a standout career still remains; his impressive speed, power, and defensive skills render him a top prospect in this draft class. Projected pick range: No. 5-15.

The Future is Bright

The 2026 MLB draft class is brimming with talent, particularly within the shortstop position. The dynamic abilities and unique skill sets of these prospects promise an exciting future for MLB organizations. As they navigate their collegiate and high school seasons, it will be interesting to watch how their trajectories evolve leading up to the draft.