2026 Prospects Big Board

Roch Cholowsky is the consensus best player in the 2026 draft. He is a rare plus-plus bat and plus-plus glove shortstop whose combination of athleticism, polish, and impact makes him the most sought-after college prospect since Paul Skenes in 2023. His offensive profile is driven by elite swing decisions (low chase, high zone contact) and top-of-the-scale contact quality, producing game power without selling out for damage. Defensively he shows the hands, range, and internal clock to be a long-term MLB shortstop. With fast-track indicators across bat speed, EV consistency, and defensive reliability, Cholowsky is seemingly a no-brainer number one prospect.

Measuring at 6’5” 205lbs, Jackson Flora has the best combination of raw stuff and intangibles in the country. Not only did Flora average 96.6 mph on the heater in 2025, but he also boasted the best sweeper in D1 baseball at 116 Pro stuff+. His arsenal should seamlessly translate into pro ball after adding a kick change and curveball this fall. There is plenty of usage room for arsenal expasnsion as he moves to the pros. Flora has also proven that he can command the baseball at an elite clip, walking only 42 batters in 122 career innings at USCB. As he develops in the pros, we predict his command will continue to improve. High Floor, unlimited ceiling, #1 Pitching Prospect.

AJ Gracia’s offensive profile has some of the most projectable upside in the class. Built around a left-handed bat with elite swing decisions and plus contact ability, he controls the zone at an advanced level and consistently accesses his solid raw power. That combination gives evaluators confidence in his bat translating at the next level. Defensively, Gracia has solid instincts and route efficiency in the outfield. He has a good chance to remain in center field, with a high-floor fallback to left. If he sustains the production he showed late in 2025 over a full season in 2026, he will be a fast-rising draft bat with everyday upside.

College baseball’s Mr. Reliable since he burst on the scene in 2024. Burress absolutely punishes mistakes, showing off effortless juice to all fields despite only being 5’9” 190 lbs. He also plays a solid corner outfield with the athleticism to play all three outfield spots. Ridiculously good at finding barrels (24.4%) while making some notable swing changes over the years. Burress projects as a malleable pro prospect with the ability to find his way to the big leagues soon after he is drafted if he keeps hitting.

Vahn Lackey has emerged as the consensus best catcher in the 2026 class. He’s a proven offensive catcher, showing patience, contact quality to all-fields, and the raw strength to project 15-plus home run power as his swing continues to lift. Lackey lit up radars thanks to a massive year-to-year jump in production and his role as the U.S. collegiate team’s starting catcher. He also has high-end athleticism, a strong and accurate arm, and the versatility to handle other infield spots if needed. Lackey offers rare two-way value at a premium position and profiles as a true first-round, franchise backstop.

Liam Peterson stands out with his physical, durable frame along with an upper-90s fastball that consistently beats hitters at the top of the zone. His secondary pitches can show real swing-and-miss potential, and while they still need polish, the underlying shapes and separation point to significant upside. With a proven ability to repeat his delivery and command his full arsenal, Peterson projects as a high-ceiling starter whose best baseball is still ahead of him.

Chris Hacopian is one of the most polished hitters in the 2026 class, standing out for his elite strike-zone judgment and advanced feel for the barrel. His swing may look busy, but it’s consistently on time, producing hard contact to all fields and rarely misses against fastballs. Hacopian provides one of the safest hit tools in the draft. Although his defensive home remains fluid, the bat is the carrying tool. Even with minimal power gains in the future, Hacopian profiles as an impact offensive piece whose value will be driven by on-base ability and contact quality at the next level.

Cameron Flukey checks all the boxes. He has the pro-ready frame, fastball quality, and ability to miss bats with his secondaries. Flukey's fastball plays above the radar gun due to elite ride and a unique visual, while his slider and curveball serve as two true put-away weapons that neutralize both right- and left-handed hitters when he’s ahead in counts. Would like to see the cutter/slider creep into the 86-89 mph range in pro ball. When you combine size, durability, strike-throwing, and a clear starter’s foundation, Flukey offers a safer path to mid-rotation value than all of of the riskier upside arms in the class.

Gabe Gaeckle is one of the most electric arms in the class, built around a deceptive, mid-to-upper-90s fastball. His fastball plays above its velocity thanks to low release height and elite carry. He pairs that heater with a tight slider (3000+ rpm) and flashes two additional secondaries (CB, CH) that give him a true starter’s mix when he’s able to land them for strikes. If he completes the transition from the bullpen to a consistent rotation piece in 2026, Gaeckle has the stuff, competitiveness, and swing-and-miss profile to force his way into top 10 consideration.

After a monster 2025 where he slashed .321/.421/.636 with 18 home runs and 18 doubles, Justin Lebron emerged as a must follow player in a loaded class of infielders for this year's draft. Since stepping foot at Alabama, he has added elite bat speed, unlocking well-above-average raw power from the right side with the ability to consistently drive the ball in the air. 11 of his 18 home runs in 2025 came to the pull side. The offensive profile isn’t without risk, as a 22.1% in-zone whiff rate and a strikeout total that doubled his walks point to chase and contact concerns that will be tested against pro-level pitching. That said, the overall package is strong, and the defensive value raises the floor considerably. Lebron is an impact defender with the arm strength, range, and instincts to make every throw from shortstop and project as a plus contributor anywhere on the infield.

Eric Becker is a left-handed bat who’s done nothing but produce from the time he stepped on the field at UVA. Becker holds down an everyday role and consistently controls at-bats with advanced bat-to-ball skills and a disciplined approach. The offensive profile is definitely centered around his hit tool. Becker is a disciplined hitter that maintains a simple swing and a willingness to get on base, andn there is room for more offensive impact if he starts driving the ball with intent. Defensively, Becker brings strong instincts and good feet, giving him a chance to get looks at shortstop in pro ball, though second or third base may ultimately fit best. If the power comes even a half-grade, the offensive floor and positional flexibility give him a very real path to the first round of the draft.

Ace Reese is one of the louder power bats in the class, producing a .352/.422/.718 slash line with 21 homers in 2025 despite playing through injury. His power stands out as the brightest tool. Reese has easy plus juice generated from a physical 6'4", 220-pound frame, along with real bat speed. He leverages his frame and hit tool to do damage to all fields against both lefties and righties. He can be overly aggressive at times in the zone, but his swing decisions have trended in the right direction. The defensive fit is the main question mark. His limited range and an average arm put pressure on the bat, with first base or potentially a corner outfield a more likely long-term home.

Derek Curiel has quickly established himself as one of the highest-upside position players in the 2026 class after emerging as the offensive engine of LSU’s national championship run. Throughout his whole career, he has proved his bat plays against elite competition. He’s a polished left-handed hitter with advanced swing decisions, elite bat-to-ball skill, and the ability to drive hard contact to all fields. That combination bodes for one the safest offensive floors in the draft. Any incremental strength gains should unlock even modest power while he continues to handle center field with ease. Overall, Curiel profiles as a top-10 caliber talent whose combination of hit tool, athleticism, and feel for the game is extremely difficult to find.

Carlon is a premier left-handed arm with a rare combination of size, funk, and bat-missing ability. He struck out 86 hitters in 54 innings in 2025. At 6'5", 220 pounds, he owns a malleable starter’s frame and a four-pitch mix from a 6.8 foot release height and still has room to grow. The fastball will touch the upper 90s with enough carry to generate whiffs, while both breaking balls—cutter and curve—grade as legitimate bat-miss weapons and anchor his arsenal. Carlon's steep approach angle on his breaking balls are something to keep an eye on in pro ball. The X-factor for his 2026 value is the changeup; without a reliable arm-side offering to manage right-handed hitters deeper into games, there’s real reliever risk at the next level. He’s already proven he can dominate in short stints, but sharpening the full mix as a starter would significantly elevate his draft profile even more.

Sawyer Strosnider is one of the more dynamic players in the ’26 class, coming off a season where he posted double-digit homers, triples, doubles, and steals. The left-handed swing is loose and powerful with consistent in-zone contact, giving him real impact upside when he’s on time. The offensive profile still hinges on making better swing decisions, particularly against left-handed breaking balls. He’s a quick-twitch, plus runner at 6’2”, 200, with the athleticism to stick in center field long term despite logging most of his college reps in right. Add in plus arm strength and the overall package points to a high-ceiling outfielder whose draft value will rise with improved pitch selection and platoon performance.

Chris Rembert is coming off a freshman season that earned consensus All-America honors and included strong performance with the U.S. Collegiate National Team. His lightning quick swing and pro-ready approach allow him to control the strike zone while spraying hard line drives from gap to gap. The offensive ceiling hinges on whether he converts some of his ground-ball contact into line drives, but the underlying bat speed and strength suggest there’s more damage available. Defensively, he’s settled in as a reliable second baseman with steady hands and adequate arm strength. Rembert has a clear everyday profile built on hit tool, feel, and offensive reliability.

Bell is now one of the highest-floor underclass bats in the 2026 class after passing on being the highest unsigned pick in 2024. This past season he was visibly Kentucky’s best player as a freshman. A polished switch-hitter with real bat speed and strength, Bell projects for plus power once he consistently lifts the ball. He can get overly passive at times and will need to tighten up against quality offspeed pitches. Defensively, he has the actions, instincts, and arm strength to stick at shortstop, with the athleticism to move anywhere on the infield if needed. The combination of track record, dynamic offensive impact, and defensive versatility puts him squarely in day 1 conversations.

Zion Rose is an extremely physical right-handed bat whose bat speed and strength generate plus raw power that plays to all fields. Rose has above-average bat-to-ball skills and a dynamic offensive profile, highlighted by 32 extra-base hits and 31 stolen bases in 2025. His contact-oriented approach can work against him at times, leading to chase and ground-ball contact that limits walk rate and caps even more impact on the bases. Rose is an above-average runner with real base-stealing instincts, and while he’s certainly has room to grow in the outfield, the bat projects comfortably into an everyday corner outfield profile at the next level.

Ryder Helfrick is one of the most complete catcher profiles in this class. His high-IQ defensive foundation gives him a real chance to make history as the first Arkansas’ catcher to be picked in the first round. Offensively, he brings plus bat speed and raw power, consistently capitalizing on fastball mistakes. In 2025, 11 of his 15 home runs went to the pull side. Despite the raw tools, he still needs to refine his approach against offspeed and cut down the chase situations. The separator for him is the defense: an above-average receiver and blocker with advanced framing feel and a strong arm that should shut down the running game once throw accuracy tightens. Even if the bat takes time to fully mature, the defensive floor and overall profile point to a high-confidence big league outcome.

After breaking out at Virginia with 17 homers as a freshman, Henry Ford entered last year as one of the more prominent sophomore-eligible bats in the class. Despite his pedigree, a dip in power production pushed teams away from his asking price despite still having a strong season. He has transferred to Tennessee for the 2026 season with an offensive profile that’s still easy to buy into. At the plate, Ford relies on plus strength, real bat speed, and a frame that suggests impact power at the next level. The key for 2026 is translating that raw juice into consistent lift, especially in a hitter-friendly environment where damage needs to show up more frequently. Defensively, Ford projects to a corner outfield or first base role, with solid instincts and enough athleticism to avoid being a liability.

Hunter Dietz arguably owns the highest ceiling among left-handed pitchers in the 2026 class, built around an electric fastball that sits mid-90s and has touched 99 mph. The pitch plays up thanks to a cut-ride shape from the left side that evaluators project to translate cleanly to pro ball. He complements the heater with a firm cutter/slider and a larger breaking curve, giving him multiple ways to miss bats. At 6’6”, 235 pounds, Dietz’s slingshot style three-quarter delivery adds deception to an already loud arsenal. Despite all the desirable tools, his draft stock ultimately hinges on health after limited availability at Arkansas. 2026 will be his first real opportunity to prove durability over a full season.

Caden Sorrell broke out as a freshman on Texas A&M’s 2024 College World Series runner-up club and has remained a high-impact bat when on the field. Limited to just 26 games in 2025 due to injury, he still showed elite power output, launching 12 home runs on the back of plus bat speed and real raw strength. The offensive risk centers on a launch-first swing that can get long, leading to elevated in-zone fastball miss rates, particularly against velocity (25% IZ whiff on 93+ mph). The whiff concerns will be the key adjustment point as he moves forward. When healthy, Sorrell is a plus runner with defensive versatility, possessing the instincts to handle center field and the arm strength to profile anywhere across the outfield.

Joey Volchko is one of the most electric arms in the 2026 class, bringing mid-to-upper-90s velocity topping out in the triple-digits with a durable, athletic 6-foot-4 frame. Now at Georgia, his upside hinges on tightening command and refining pitch shapes, as his fastball shows unusual cut with limited carry—making him an intriguing candidate for seam-shifted wake optimization, potentially via a SSW sinker. His calling card is a hard, low-90s gyro slider with legitimate bat-miss ability, though further separation between a his slider and fastball could help prevent pitch decay when command wavers. If the command gains from last year continue and the arsenal sharpens, Volchko has a realistic path to first-round consideration.

Chase Brunson profiles as a high-floor bat with steady all-around impact, both offensively and defensively. He stepped on campus at TCU as an immediate starter and has only trended up, most notably jumping from three home runs as a freshman to twelve as a sophomore, indicating real offensive growth. While no single tool overwhelms, Brunson consistently finds barrels with an aggressive, gap-to-gap approach, and his 6'3", 200-pound frame paired with high-end exit velocities suggests more power is still coming. Defensively, he brings average speed with plus instincts in center field, with a clean fallback to an above-average right fielder at the next level.

Jarren Advincula is a 5'11" 200-pound second baseman from Georgia Tech that brings elite contact skills and a proven track record of hitting for average after winning the 2024 Cape Cod League batting title (.392) and earning the league's top prospect honors. The left-handed hitter possesses exceptional bat-to-ball ability with an impressive 10.9% strikeout rate and .342 batting average in 2025, using a crouched stance and compact swing to pepper the ball through holes in the defense. His 31.5% chase rate shows he can be overly aggressive on pitches outside the zone at times. While Advincula has enough bat speed and strength to generate occasional pop, his ground-ball approach and reluctance to lift the ball limits his in-game power to the occasional double-digit homer total rather than a major offensive weapon. Defensively, he's a sure-handed, instinctive defender at second base with plus athleticism and speed, though his average arm strength makes him best suited for second base rather than shortstop. Advincula projects as a high-floor, contact-oriented leadoff type who could climb through a farm system quickly based on his ability to hit for average and play solid defense up the middle, though his limited power and modest walk rate cap his offensive ceiling.

Carson Tinney, a 6'3" 220-pound catcher from the University of Texas, emerged as one of college baseball's most complete backstops after a first-team All-American campaign in 2025 that saw him lead Notre Dame in nearly every offensive category. The junior possesses elite pull-side power with a 111.2 mph 90th percentile exit velocity and an exceptional 31.5% barrel rate, placing him among the nation's most dangerous hitters. Tinney pairs his plus-plus raw power with advanced plate discipline for a catcher, posting a .498 OBP and maintaining a decent 19.5% strikeout rate while showing the ability to control the strike zone and work deep counts. Behind the plate, he's developed into a well-rounded defensive backstop with smooth receiving abilities, solid arm strength (threw out 17-of-25 base stealers in 2025), and improving leadership skills that have drawn praise from Texas coach Jim Schlossnagle. Tinney's combination of impact offensive production, premium power output, and legitimate catching ability make him one of the most valuable players in the 2026 draft class. He projects as a potential everyday catcher who can hit in the middle of a big league lineup while providing quality defense at baseball's most demanding position.

Gavin Grahovac, a 6'2" 220-pound third baseman from Texas A&M, enters 2026 looking to prove he's fully recovered from left shoulder surgery that limited him to just six games in 2025. The junior possesses elite bat speed and plus-plus raw power that translates to an impressive 108.7 mph 90th percentile exit velocity and a 21.4% barrel rate, with the ability to drive the ball to all fields. However, his aggressive approach remains a concern, as he had the tendency to chase breaking balls. Grahovac's solid arm strength fits the hot corner, though defensive inconsistencies may eventually push him to a corner outfield spot where his power bat would still profile well. If he can harness his massive power potential while improving his plate discipline, he has the upside to be an impact middle-of-the-order run producer.

Daniel Cuvet, a 6'4" 235-pound third baseman from the University of Miami, has established himself as one of the most feared power bats in college baseball after mashing 42 home runs over his first two seasons with the Hurricanes. The junior's raw power is among the best in the 2026 draft class, backed by his 106.8 mph 90th percentile exit velocity and 25.3% barrel rate, with the ability to drive mistakes out to all fields and muscle mishits over the fence. While his aggressive approach leads to some swing-and-miss (35.6% chase rate, 19.0% K%), Cuvet has shown the ability to battle in two-strike counts and make enough contact to potentially reach average hit tool projection. Despite possessing an above-average arm that fits third base, his below-average lateral quickness at the hot corner will likely necessitate a move to first base or possibly a corner outfield spot where his defensive limitations would be less exposed. Cuvet's 65-grade raw power and proven track record of production make him an intriguing top-rounds selection for teams willing to bet on the bat carrying him, regardless of his ultimate defensive home.

Tegan Kuhns, a 6'3" 195-pound right-hander from the University of Tennessee, enters 2026 as the top sophomore-eligible pitching prospect after an impressive summer on the Cape and a refined arsenal that has him trending toward first-round consideration. The projectable righty features a lively 93-95 T98 mph fastball with excellent carry, pairing it with a sharp upper-70s curveball that shows downer break and plus potential. Kuhns has moved away from his inconsistent cutter and toward more of a true gyro slider and curveball approach for his breaking balls in 2026, though developing his changeup into a legitimate weapon against left-handed hitters remains crucial for him to reach his ceiling as a potential mid-rotation starter. His 56.2% first-pitch strike rate and improved 26.4% chase rate show there’s room for a higher performance ceiling, and he still needs to refine his delivery as he continues to add strength to his athletic frame. With two legitimate plus pitches, improving command metrics, and significant physical projection remaining, Kuhns has the ingredients to be a front-of-the-rotation arm if he can establish a reliable third and fourth offering to complement his fastball-breaking ball combination.

Mulivai Levu, a 6'1" 205-pound first baseman from UCLA, emerged as one of the most dangerous left-handed power threats in 2025 with a .320/.389/.522 slash line and 12 home runs while earning a spot on the U.S. National Collegiate Team. The junior possesses elite bat speed and plus raw power with a 105.8 mph 90th percentile exit velocity and 24.5% barrel rate, showcasing the ability to drive the ball with authority to all fields and tap into 30-homer upside at the professional level. Levu's impressive hand-eye coordination and bat-to-ball skills are both a strength and a weakness at times. His ability to cover the entire plate leads to a 30.2% chase rate as he expands the zone on pitches he can reach, though his improved 15.3% strikeout rate in 2025 shows progress in cutting down swing-and-miss. While most scouts project him as a solid-fielding first baseman long-term, his underrated athleticism, functional arm strength, and workable hands leave open the possibility of trying him elsewhere, though his longer actions make the hot corner a stretch. If Levu can tighten his approach and reduce his chase tendencies, his combination of elite raw power and improved plate discipline could make him one of the nation's home run leaders and push him into early-round consideration as a potential middle-of-the-order bat.

Myles Bailey, a 6'4" 257-pound first baseman from Florida State, announced his arrival as one of college baseball's premier power threats by finishing second in the ACC with 19 home runs as a freshman and earning first-team All-American honors. The left-handed slugger possesses some of the most elite raw power in the 2026 draft class with a 112.1 mph 90th percentile exit velocity and impressive 28.8% barrel rate, showcasing the ability to drive the ball out to all fields and muscle mishits over the fence. However, Bailey's swing-and-miss concerns remain significant, as his 31.0% strikeout rate and 23.9% chase rate reflect a somewhat grooved swing that will need refinement for him to consistently access his plus-plus power at the professional level, though his solid 13.1% walk rate demonstrates some plate discipline. A better athlete than he's typically credited for, Bailey is likely destined for first base defensively where he profiles as adequate, with his bat being the carrying tool in his profile. If Bailey can tighten his approach and cut down the strikeouts while maintaining his elite raw power and improving his contact quality, he has the upside to be a middle-of-the-order run producer and one of the most intriguing draft-eligible sophomores in the class.

Aiden Robbins, a 6'2" 185-pound center fielder from the University of Texas, enters 2026 as one of the draft's most intriguing pure hitters. After capturing Cape Cod League MVP honors with a .307 average, 31 hits, and six home runs in the summer of 2025, the junior has already announced his arrival in Austin with authority, going deep in the opening series of 2026. His .422/.537/.652 slash line in 2025 suggests there's plenty more power production on the horizon as he continues to tap into his projectable frame. Robbins possesses exceptional bat-to-ball skills with an elite 12.5% strikeout rate and outstanding 19.0% chase rate, consistently barreling balls (25.2% barrel rate) with a 107.1 mph 90th percentile exit velocity that indicates growing power potential beyond his six-homer 2025. While his hit tool is his calling card, Texas hitting coach Troy Tulowitzki praised him as "a pure hitter who knows how to put the bat on the ball". Scouts believe his power numbers should climb in 2026 as he learns to elevate more consistently and leverage his plus bat speed into game power. Defensively, Robbins is an elite center fielder with zero errors last season at Seton Hall, showcasing excellent range, instincts, and a solid-average arm that gives him the versatility to handle all three outfield spots and adds significant value to his offensive profile as a potential top-of-the-order catalyst with emerging power.

Jake Brown, a left-handed hitting outfielder from LSU, brings a polished hit tool and intriguing athleticism after batting a team-high .385 at the 2025 College World Series to help the Tigers capture their eighth national title. The Louisiana native uses a smooth, repeatable stroke to consistently barrel balls, posting a .338 average with a 103.0 mph 90th percentile exit velocity and a solid 20.2% barrel rate, though left-on-left sliders remain his kryptonite after hitting just .179 against left-handed pitching in 2025. That remains a critical area of improvement for 2026. Brown possesses more raw power than his teammate Derek Curiel (#7 prospect) and drives balls to his pull side with authority, projecting as a power threat with his combination of bat speed and strength. His average-to-plus speed (11 stolen bases in 2025) and strong arm give him the tools to potentially handle center field despite primarily playing right field for LSU. If Brown can make the necessary adjustments against left-handed pitching and continue to tap into his power potential while maintaining his excellent contact skills, he projects as a potential everyday outfielder with a hit-over-power profile and the defensive versatility to play all three outfield positions.

Tommy LaPour is an underrated power arm in the 2026 class, with one of the most physical builds and loudest raw stuff on the board. He operates comfortably in the mid-to-upper 90s, touching 100, and has shown the ability to deploy both a four-seam and sinker, a trait that aligns well with the league’s growing two-fastball trend. His mid-80s slider flashes plus potential but still needs command refinement and more consistent usage in leverage counts. His upper-80s changeup shows above-average feel despite an average underlying shape. Given the quality of the arsenal, evaluators expect a higher strikeout rate than he posted in 2025, making pitch usage and sequencing a key development point. Built like a NFL fullback, LaPour carries some reliever risk, but a fall focused on arsenal refinement and usage adjustments could set him up for a true breakout spring.

Tre Broussard, a 6'0" 170-pound center fielder from the University of Houston, has emerged from obscurity as one of the most toolsy and athletic outfielders in the 2026 draft class after earning co-MVP honors at the Cape Cod League All-Star game in 2025. The left-handed hitter possesses plus-plus speed that he maximizes through exceptional contact skills (10.4% strikeout rate) and a disciplined approach, spraying hard line drives gap to gap with decent exit velocities (104.2 mph 90th percentile) and occasional opposite-field power from his wiry 170-pound frame. Broussard has added muscle heading into his junior season and won't turn 21 until two months after the draft, suggesting significant remaining projection for a college player like himself. An elite baserunner who swiped 41 bags in 45 attempts (91%) between Houston and Cape Cod in 2025, Broussard's plus-plus speed translates seamlessly to center field where he's a quality defender with average to solid arm strength that gives him the versatility to play anywhere in the outfield. After going undrafted twice, Broussard is rapidly shedding his anonymity and could emerge as one of the draft's biggest risers if his power continues to develop alongside his already plus hit tool and elite speed.

Logan Hughes, a 5'11" 197-pound left fielder from Texas Tech, has established himself as one of college baseball's most productive offensive players after batting .327/.411/.697 with 19 home runs and just 24 strikeouts in 2025. He also earned Cape Cod League All-Star honors while helping Bourne win its third title in four years. The left-handed hitter possesses elite plate discipline and bat-to-ball skills with an exceptional 9.8% strikeout rate, consistently making quality swing decisions against all pitch types. His underlying data like his 106.7 mph 90th percentile exit velocity and 32.0% barrel rate suggest he has no problem squaring up baseballs. However, his offensive-minded profile is a necessity rather than a luxury, as Hughes offers minimal defensive value with below-average speed and arm strength that limit him to left field where he can look below-average at times. His 5'11" frame lacks the ideal size for first base as a fallback option. Hughes projects as a bat-first corner outfielder whose elite contact skills, advanced plate approach, and emerging power potential could make him a middle-of-the-order contributor if he can continue refining his ability to drive the ball with authority while accepting that his value lies almost entirely in his bat.

Gavin Gallaher, a 6'1" 191-pound third baseman from the University of North Carolina, has built a reputation as one of college baseball's most clutch performers after earning back-to-back NCAA Regional MVP honors and slashing .325/.409/.603 with 17 home runs in 2025. The right-handed hitter shows no glaring weaknesses at the plate with solid plate discipline (21.9% chase rate, 11.7% walk rate) and the ability to produce hard fly-ball contact gap to gap, supported by his 104.4 mph 90th percentile exit velocity and impressive 30.7% barrel rate. However, scouts remain skeptical about his pro projection due to significant concerns about his power translating with wood bats. He's slugged just .316 with two homers in 52 Cape Cod League games over two summers, which is particularly problematic for a player whose defensive versatility is limited. A below-average runner with average arm strength, Gallaher proved too slow defensively at third base and lacks the actions and quickness to handle second base in professional baseball despite North Carolina's 2026 plan to move him there. He projects as a left fielder where his offensive profile would need to play up significantly. Gallaher's college production and clutch performances are undeniable, but the combination of questionable power projection with wood bats and a likely defensive home in left field creates uncertainty about whether his game will translate to professional success.

Cade Townsend, a right-hander from the University of Mississippi, enters 2026 as one of college baseball's most electric arms. He now has a nasty five-pitch arsenal that includes a new sweeper to complement his pre-existing cutter, curveball, fastball, and changeup. Townsend features an elite cut-ride fastball at 93-96 mph with high spin rates and impressive carry, while his supinator tendencies allow him to manipulate the ball and create distinct shapes across multiple breaking pitches. Townsend's curveball may be among the best in college baseball, featuring extreme depth in the 83-85 mph range with exceptional bite, complemented by a sweeper that adds horizontal movement and a cutter that occasionally behaves like a gyro slider, giving him three different breaking ball looks to keep hitters off-balance. His upper-80s splitter flashes fade and potential as a fifth weapon, though it remains a work in progress compared to his more advanced offerings. The major question surrounding Townsend is whether he can handle a starter's workload after operating primarily out of the bullpen thus far in 2026. His high-effort delivery and inconsistent strike-throwing ability (5.29 BB/9) suggest he may need refinement to sustain his explosive stuff over extended outings, though his electric arsenal and bat-missing ability give him significant upside as either a potential mid-rotation starter or a dominant late-inning reliever if the command doesn't improve.

Brady Ballinger is a 6'2" 220-pound first baseman from the University of Kansas poised to become the first Jayhawks position player drafted in the first three rounds. In 2025 he slashed .353/.495/.670 with 16 home runs and a Big 12-leading 56 walks. The left-handed hitter's underlying data is exceptional, with few college players matching his elite combination of swing decisions (20.4% chase rate, 19.4% walk rate), contact ability, and exit velocity (106.1 mph 90th percentile, 32.9% barrel rate). Ballinger is a highly selective hitter with plus raw power who demonstrates advanced plate discipline by waiting for pitches he can drive. However, all of Ballinger's value derives from his bat, as he's a bottom-of-the-scale runner strictly limited to first base or designated hitter despite being more athletic than his frame suggests. It would be interesting to see what happens to Ballinger’s projection if the defensive ability takes a step forward. Ballinger's exceptional hitting profile makes him one of the most productive pure bats in college baseball that could push himself into day one consideration despite his limited defensive value and lack of positional versatility

Ethan Kleinschmit, a 6'3" 200-pound left-hander from Oregon State University, made a seamless transition from junior college All-American to starter in 2025, striking out 11.18 K/9 while holding hitters to a .194 batting average and establishing himself as a potential top college lefty in the 2026 draft. The southpaw operates with a polished three-pitch mix featuring a 90-93 T95 mph fastball with good tailing life and movement that generates weak contact, complemented by an upper-70s slider with solid spin and depth and a low-80s changeup thrown with above-average depth and feel. Kleinschmit's 61.2% first-pitch strike rate demonstrates his ability to fill the strike zone with all three offerings while keeping hitters off-balance, with his advanced feel for pitching and command compensating for stuff that won't overwhelm hitters. While his current arsenal is already effective, scouts wonder what an uptick in velocity might do for his profile as he adds strength, and there's room to add a cutter to give him another weapon. Kleinschmit has a solid starting pitcher's foundation with his pitch mix, strike-throwing ability (3.56 BB/9), and advanced feel, and if he finds more velocity this spring while maintaining his command and deception, he could emerge as one of the first college lefties drafted in July.

Trey Beard, a 6'2" 185-pound left-hander from Florida State University, is one of the most underrated pitchers in the country and represents the new wave of deceptive arms that pro baseball is prioritizing, with his 6.7-foot release height creating a steep vertical approach angle that destroys the modern hitters trained to hit flat fastballs. Beard operates with a high slot that generates elite extension and deception, featuring a fringy 90-93 mph fastball that he elevates effectively to induce chases and plays far better than its velocity suggests due to his unique delivery. Beard's best pitch is an outlier 75-77 mph changeup that seems to stop halfway to the plate, sold with outstanding arm speed and generating swings and misses while keeping hitters completely off-balance. He complements his primary weapons with a low-80s slider and softer curveball that he deploys strategically, both showing solid spin and depth, though they trail his elite changeup in effectiveness. Beard has made strides in filling the strike zone while posting a 12.35 K/9 and 3.14 ERA across 86.0 innings. Elevating the first pitch strike rate should help him control counts at an even higher clip in 2026. He profiles as a second-round pitchability arm whose unconventional angles and command-first approach could carve out a successful career as a back-end starter or versatile long reliever.

Lucas Moore, a 6'0" 180-pound center fielder from the University of Louisville, has emerged as college baseball's most notorious basestealer after leading NCAA Division I with 53 steals in 54 attempts (98%) helping the Cardinals reach the College World Series. The left-handed hitter possesses plus-plus speed that he weaponizes to create havoc on the bases, getting excellent jumps rather than relying solely on raw speed. His quality reads and routes make him a solid defender in center field despite fringy arm strength. Moore is also one of the best contact hitters in college baseball with an elite 9.7% strikeout rate and 19.2% chase rate, controlling the strike zone exceptionally well and posting a .347 average while understanding his limitations as a bat-to-ball player with minimal power (100.4 mph 90th percentile exit velocity). He concentrates on line drives and grounders he can beat out with his speed but still needs to improve against breaking balls with depth. Moore projects as a high-floor, speed-first center fielder whose elite baserunning instincts and exceptional contact skills could make him a dynamic leadoff option and defensive asset at the top of a lineup, though his lack of power limits his offensive ceiling to that of a pure table-setter.

Ryan Lynch, a 6'3" 235-pound right-hander from the University of North Carolina, burst onto the scene as a freshman in 2025 by dominating out of the bullpen before posting a 2.25 ERA across three postseason starts, including seven strong innings against Arizona in the NCAA super regional finals. The power arm operates as a primary east-west pitcher, featuring a plus 92-96 mph sinker that generates exceptional ground contact, paired with a sharp 83-85 mph slider that shows both depth and sweep, though it sometimes breaks so much that controlling it becomes difficult. Lynch's relies heavily on strike-throwing and command, making the development of additional pitches like a cutter and/or curveball crucial for his projection as a starter. While he maintained his velocity through three late-season starts, he'll need to prove durability over a full season, develop his offspeed stuff, and further refine his control (3.67 BB/9) to maximize his starter ceiling. His strong, durable frame and low release height create natural deception, and if he can add weapons beyond his fastball-slider combination, he could creep into first-round consideration.

Blake Morningstar, a 6'4" 225-pound right-hander from Wake Forest University, enters 2026 as one of college baseball's most polished pitching prospects after earning All-ACC honors as a starter in 2025 and representing the U.S. Collegiate National Team over the summer. The junior features one of the most complete and pro-ready arsenals in the country with six distinct pitch shapes: a 92-95 T97 mph fastball that he commands with both two-seam and four-seam variants, an upper-80s cutter as his primary secondary offering, a mid-80s slider with added sweep that generates his most whiffs, a low-80s curveball he can land for strikes, and a firmer mid-to-upper-80s changeup. Morningstar's 64.0% first-pitch strike rate and 10.59 K/9 demonstrate his ability to attack hitters with his entire repertoire, while his 27.8% chase rate shows he can get hitters to expand the zone at times. While none of his individual pitches grade as plus-plus, the combination of six usable offerings with pro-ready shapes, solid command and control (3.65 BB/9), and a durable frame makes him a high-floor pitching prospect. Morningstar's polished approach, advanced feel for pitching, and ability to throw strikes with all six pitches project him as a potential backend starter who can eat innings and provide consistency at the back of a professional rotation, with the possibility of another velocity jump after showing improved stuff in fall practice potentially raising his ceiling further.

Nathan Aceves authored one of the most dominant small-sample performances in the country in 2025, posting a 1.65 ERA over 27.1 innings while showcasing strong strike-throwing ability (61.4% first-pitch strikes, 3.29 BB/9) and advanced bat-missing skills (10.54 K/9, 28.1% K%). The arsenal is headlined by a fastball that sits 92-94 mph and touches 96 mph, with decent carry, while his breaking ball and new kick-changeup give him enough of a pitch mix to neutralize both right- and left-handed hitters when he’s on. The biggest question mark is durability and whether the stuff holds up over a bigger workload, as the limited innings total (27.1 IP) and modest arsenal create uncertainty about his ability to maintain elite performance deep into games. If Aceves can prove he can handle 60+ innings in 2026 while maintaining his command and whiff-ability, he profiles as a back-end starter or premium multi-inning reliever with feel and pitchability as his carrying tools.

Ricky Ojeda is a high-strikeout left-hander who dominated hitters in 2025, posting an elite 11.32 K/9 and 31.7% strikeout rate over 66 innings while showcasing advanced bat-missing ability (25.5% in-zone whiff) and solid command metrics. The arsenal is built around a fastball that sits in the low 90s and touches 94-95 mph. Ojeda is a prime example of leveraging Vertical Approach Angle (VAA) to get whiffs at the top of the zone and above. From a 5.5ft release height with 19.6” of IVB, Ojeda’s fastball is a -3.99° VAA to the top third of the strike zone. That’s elite. The main development area is tightening the command and offspeed shapes. A 36.7% first pitch strike rate on non-fastballs suggests he can become predictable at times, forcing him to challenge hitters with the fastball only. If Ojeda can improve his offspeed shapes, specifically the slider and splitter, while maintaining his elite bat-missing ability, he profiles as a potential back-end starter with swing-and-miss upside, though his modest velocity and frame may limit his ceiling.

Mason Edwards is a 6'2", 190-pound left-handed pitcher out of USC who is putting together a dominant 2026 campaign, posting a 0.30 ERA across his first 30 innings with a 46.4 K%, and a 1.35 FIP that underscores just how legitimate the surface numbers are. The engine of his arsenal is an elite cut-ride fastball sitting 91-95 from a 6.4-foot release height, generating plus carry through the zone and commanding all four quadrants with ease. He pairs it with a low-80s curveball that is arguably his best secondary. The curve is a true swing-and-miss offering that plays off the fastball shape and tunnels perfectly, generating plenty of chase and whiff. A fading changeup rounds out the mix as a tertiary option, and his supinator tendencies open the door for a kick change down the line that could give him more room for added depth and whiffs. Edwards projects as a malleable starter with real arsenal expansion upside at the next level. A gyro slider or cutter addition would be a natural fit, and a modest velocity tick upon entering pro ball could push his fastball into a consistently plus band. The foundation here is already premium and he is a polished, high-upside arm who knows how to pitch.

Jason DeCaro, a 6'5" 230-pound right-hander from the University of North Carolina, has established himself as one of college baseball's most polished arms despite questions about the upside of his stuff. In his college career thus far, he has relied on advanced pitchability and sequencing along with above average stuff. DeCaro operates with an 91-94 mph fastball that hs topped out at 97 early in 2026. The run-ride fastball shape is complemented by a low-80s changeup with fade that remains his go-to secondary offering for inducing swings and misses. His low-80s slider and mid-70s curveball are solid-average pitches that he sequences intelligently, though his 20.5% chase rate and 27.4% in-zone whiff rate reflect his limitations in missing bats. Despite an inability to get whiff at times, his excellent control (2.77 BB/9) keeps hitters off-balance. The intrigue with DeCaro lies in his youth. He will be just 20 years and three months old on draft day, making him one of the youngest college juniors eligible. Decaro projects as high-floor back-end starter whose advanced feel and command could allow him to outpitch his modest stuff rather than an arm with dominant swing-and-miss capabilities and no control.

Kade Lewis, a 6'3" 220-pound third baseman from Wake Forest University, has proven he can hit at every level after capturing the Big East batting title (.377) in 2024, then maintaining that production against ACC competition in 2025 before earning Cape Cod League All-Star recognition. The left-handed hitter employs a simple setup with a swing path built around consistent barrel contact, posting an impressive 22.6% chase rate and 16.0% walk rate. Lewis slugged .714 against fastballs in 2025, demonstrating his ability to be on time despite mid-tier exit velos. The primary question surrounding Lewis is whether his offensive profile fits his likely defensive home, as Wake Forest plans to shift him to first base in 2026 where his average arm strength and actions are average despite good athleticism. If Lewis settles at first base long-term, his lack of premium power becomes more problematic as his hit-over-power approach may not provide enough offensive impact for a corner position. However, his elite contact skills and ability to get on base at a high clip could allow him to carve out a role as a high-average hitter who maximizes his average raw power through exceptional bat-to-ball ability.

Owen Kramkowski, a right-hander from Arizona, has established himself as one of the more intriguing pitching prospects in the 2026 draft class with a sophisticated four-pitch arsenal built around an impressive fastball triangle that aligns perfectly with modern pitching trends. Kramkowski commands three distinct fastball shapes in the low-to-mid 90s: a sinker, four-seamer, and cutter, each with unique movement profiles that create different looks and angles for hitters. This type of versatility makes him particularly valuable to analytically-minded organizations prioritizing fastball variety. Kramkowski complements his fastball trio with a legitimate sweeper that adds big horizontal break to his mix. His strike-throwing ability is exceptional with just 1.8 BB/9, though he may have more control than command. At times he caught too much of the plate and got hit hard. Reports from fall practice indicated Kramkowski touched 98 mph, representing a possible velocity uptick that could dramatically elevate his draft stock if sustained through the spring. While some teams may scrutinize his lack of a true swing-and-miss heater or plus secondary pitch metrics, if his stuff continues trending upward Kramkowski's unique combination of fastball shapes, strike-throwing ability, and potential velocity gains could push him into early-round consideration as a high-floor pitchability arm with emerging upside.

Ethan Norby is a high-strikeout left-hander who dominated over 90 innings in 2025, posting an elite 11.90 K/9 and 30.4% strikeout rate while showcasing durability and the ability to handle a full starter's workload. The separator in Norby's profile is his absolutely filthy sweeper that sits 79-81 mph with 16 inches of induced vertical break and consistent 3000+ RPM spin rate. Norby’s sweeper is easily the best left-handed sweeper on the mid-major board and a legitimate wipeout pitch that generates chase and swing-and-miss. His fastball sits in the low 90s and touched 96 mph last year, playing up due to his ability to command it in multiple locations. His cutter and changeup give him additional ways to keep hitters honest. Although his arsenal is sexy, his command still has room to take a step forward (4.35 BB/9, 11.2% walk rate). If Norby can tighten his strike-throwing and reduce free passes while avoiding pitch decay on his elite sweeper in 2026, he profiles as a potential mid-rotation starter with swing-and-miss upside and durability to handle 150+ innings.