1. Philadelphia Phillies: A.J. Puk, LHP, Florida
It seems like Florida lefty A.J. Puk will be the Phillies guy at No. 1. While, California prep outfielder Mickey Moniak still remains in the hunt, Puk has always been the player the Phillies have wanted to select.
Although Puk was inconsistent early on in the season and missed time with back spasms, he has since rounded into form and again looks like a top of the line starter.
A 6-foot-7, 230-pound lefty, Puk has wipeout stuff, featuring an upper 90s fastball, and has the potential to move through a system quickly.
2. Cincinnati Reds: Nick Senzel, 3B, Tennesse
Senzel has had a strong spring and is arguably the the top bat in the 2016 MLB Draft class. He’s improved defensively this spring, while showing an advanced approach at the plate. The Reds would have interest in Puk if he fell, while Mercer’s Kyle Lewis and Purto Rico prep shortstop Delvin Perez also remain options here.
3. Atlanta Braves: Kyle Lewis, OF, Mercer
The Braves are in total rebuilding mode and their farm system is stacked with pitching. While they could select prep right-hander Riley Pint, who they prefer over prep lefty Jason Groome, it appears the Braves will select a college bat at No. 3.
Mercer’s Kyle Lewis and Louisville’s Corey Ray are the top two options. Lewis gets the slight nod over Ray due to his intangibles and incredible power.
Find out more about Lewis here.
4. Colorado Rockies: Mickey Moniak, OF, La Costa Canyon (Calif.) HS
Moniak is one of the top prep position players in this year’s draft class and is rising up draft boards after having a strong spring. Moniak is a line drive hitter who uses the entire field and has the athleticism to stay in centerfield defensively long term.
The Rockies seems to have a strong liking for Moniak, and even the Phillies have been keeping a close eye on him in recent weeks.
Find out more about Moniak here.
5. Milwaukee Brewers: Jason Groome, LHP, Barnegat (N.J.) HS
While Puerto Rico prep shortstop Delvin Perez could be an intriguing option for the Brewers, it will be hard to pass up on Groome or prep righty Riley Pint. Despite some maturity question marks, Groome is arguably the best player in the draft and would make a lot of sense for the rebuilding Brewers who are searching for elite pitching prospects.
A 6-foot-6, 180-pound left-hander, Groome has all the makings of being a top-of-the-rotation starting pitcher. He has a clean delivery that he repeats well, while possessing a mid-90s fastball and solid secondary staff.
Louisville outfielder Corey Ray could also be an option here.
