Picks 1-5
1. Philadelphia Phillies: A.J. Puk, LHP, Florida
With the draft only a day away, the No. 1 overall pick is still unclear. While, Florida lefty A.J. Puk has been the favorite over the last month, California prep outfielder Mickey Moniak and Mercer outfielder Kyle Lewis still remain in the hunt.
Although Puk hasn’t produced up to expectations this season, struggling with consistency and missing time earlier in the year with back spasms, he has the potential and traits teams seek when selecting towards the top of the first round.
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 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 remains an option here.
3. Atlanta Braves: Kyle Lewis, OF, Mercer
The Braves are in total rebuilding mode and their farm system is deep 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 kept a close eye on him in recent weeks.
Find out more about Moniak here.
5. Milwaukee Brewers: Jason Groome, LHP, Barnegat (N.J.) HS
With Puerto Rico prep shortstop Delvin Perez out of the picture, it appears the No. 5 overall pick will come down to Louisville outfielder Corey Ray, prep left-hander Jason Groome and 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.
Find a detailed explanation on why the Brewers should select Groome here.
