As the 2023 MLB Draft approaches, teams are actively engaging in discussions about potential trades and candidates for the early picks, especially those in the top half. Many teams are working hard to assess who’s available, ensuring their options are wide open. The excitement is palpable as rumors swirl regarding which players could save teams money, particularly in this year of uncertainty regarding the talent pool.
Historically, significant trades at the beginning of the Draft are uncommon, but that doesn’t preclude potential deals this year. As I compile this almost-final mock draft, the focus shifts to identifying the best possible candidates for each team. Both Jim Callis and I recently discussed this landscape in our MLB Pipeline Podcast, narrowing the field for the Washington Nationals down to two primary contenders: Anderson and Ethan Holliday.
Currently, Anderson has a 60 percent chance of being selected, while Holliday trails at 40 percent. This slight adjustment is more about gut feeling than concrete data, especially given the recent dismissal of GM Mike Rizzo, which adds an unpredictable element to their draft strategy.
The Los Angeles Angels, known for leaning towards advanced college players, might consider diverging from their pattern this year. They could eye one of the top high school shortstops, with Eli Willits leading the pack. However, in this scenario, a left-handed college pitcher like Doyle or Arnold could be a more pragmatic choice. The Angels could save financially by selecting Doyle, who could potentially impact their major league roster within a year.
The Seattle Mariners are in a similar position and would favor Anderson landing in their lap, though likelihood seems slim. If they pivot to college right-handed pitchers, they may evaluate prospects like Kyson Witherspoon or Tyler Bremner. Should they opt for a hitter, names like Oregon State’s Aiva Arquette or Irish might catch their interest.
For the St. Louis Cardinals, the focus remains on potential shortstops, with Carlson leading among high school talents. Meanwhile, Arnold and Witherspoon are strong considerations if they decide on a pitcher. The emergence of Irsh as a possible draft pick could add depth to their options.
The Miami Marlins are fans of Willits, but if he’s gone, Carlson becomes a prime target. They continue to evaluate other shortstops like Parker, as well as hitters like Irish and Arizona outfielder Brendan Summerhill. Arnold remains a go-to discussion point as they contemplate their drafting strategy.
As for the Cincinnati Reds, they are committed to selecting the best available talent, regardless of demographic. If Hernandez is available, he could be a fitting choice, but the combination of Irish and Witherspoon suggests a preference for offensive upside.
In a surprising twist, the Oakland Athletics are exploring options beyond their usual targets and might be open to selecting a hitter like Kilen or Summerhill. They also need to consider elite college arms over other high school shortstop options. The possibility remains that Hall could be selected if the team emphasizes younger talent.
The Draft planning continues for teams like the Chicago White Sox, who find themselves weighing the benefits of selecting either a batsman or pitcher. If Witherspoon remains available, he may sway them toward the mound, otherwise, Houston maintains edge among hitters.
The Arizona Diamondbacks, previously linked to the top catcher in their previous mock drafts, might decide to secure that key player rather than risk him falling past their next pick. Aloy is another college hitter they’re considering, alongside Wood, who is still one of the foremost college pitchers on the board.
The Baltimore Orioles hold four of the top 37 selections in the Draft, allowing for great flexibility. A preference for hitters has risen to the surface, with Fien showcasing an exceptional hitting tool. They may also consider Aloy or LaViolette as candidates.
Fielding hitters continues to be the trend within the Brewers’ administration, with Aloy, LaViolette, or high school contender Cunningham all as potential selections.
For the Kansas City Royals, the top prep lefty in this chapter of the draft may be a clear choice, given the interest in their scouting department. However, they could also go for a high school hitter from the competitive pool.
The Philadelphia Phillies, noting the heavy selection of high school athletes in past drafts, might pivot to a college catcher this time. Other college bats like Ethan Conrad could catch their eye, along with a few prep hitters.
Finally, the Cleveland Guardians might sway toward college hitters if circumstances allow. If they find one of their preferred prospects like Bodine or Stevenson available, they could grab one of them. Yet, Hammond’s offensive promise stands out among their current considerations.
With the 2023 MLB Draft nearing, teams must balance their strategic needs with the ever-changing dynamics of player value and availability. Scouts and decision-makers are keenly focused as they prepare for this pivotal event in baseball’s calendar year.
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