In the realm of Major League Baseball (MLB), talent identification through the draft is crucial for team success. Among the 30 players highlighted, sixteen were first-round choices, showcasing the importance of early selections in building a competitive roster. Notably, one standout is Tarik Skubal, drafted in the ninth round by the Tigers in 2018, who has emerged as one of the best pitchers in the league.
Three players from this list have clinched World Series titles with their respective teams: Alex Bregman and Will Smith with the Astros and Dodgers respectively, and Austin Riley with the Braves. Their achievements highlight the potential of draft choices to contribute significantly to a team's championship aspirations.
After signing for $1.1 million nine years ago, Bo Bichette quickly established himself as a formidable hitter. Winning a Minor League batting title in 2017, he continued to impress in the majors with a career average of .288 since his debut in 2019. Bichette’s power surge, exemplified by his 29 home runs in 2021, solidified his role at shortstop, leading the Jays to three postseason appearances.
Orioles: Gunnar Henderson, SS (2019, Second Round)While the spotlight often shines on Adley Rutschman, Henderson stands out with a higher Wins Above Replacement (WAR) at 18.5 compared to Rutschman’s 14.6. Both were All-Star starters in 2024, forming what could be one of the greatest 1-2 punches in draft history.
Rays: Brandon Lowe, 2B (2015, Third Round)Brandon Lowe has become one of the premier power hitters among second basemen since his major league debut in 2018. His impressive slugging percentage of .483 is only surpassed by Ketel Marte. Lowe's performance peaked during his 39-homer season in 2021, earning him recognition in the AL MVP voting.
Red Sox: Jarren Duran, 2B (2018, Seventh Round)Once a second baseman with modest power at Long Beach State, Jarren Duran transformed his game after being moved to the outfield. He became a regular in 2023, winning All-Star Game MVP honors and finishing eighth in AL MVP voting, showcasing his potential with 83 extra-base hits last season.
Yankees: Anthony Volpe, SS (2019, First Round)Drafted 30th overall, Anthony Volpe has evolved into a key player for the Yankees. After enhancing his strength and swing during the pandemic, he has delivered impressive statistics, including a Gold Glove, 33 home runs, and 52 steals in his first two seasons.
Guardians: Steven Kwan, OF (2018, Fifth Round)Despite being overshadowed in college, Steven Kwan has proven himself as a vital asset for the Guardians. Since his MLB debut in 2022, he has become renowned for his contact hitting and defensive prowess, consistently earning Gold Glove recognition.
Royals: Bobby Witt Jr., SS (2019, First Round)Chosen second overall in 2019, Bobby Witt Jr. is now the face of the Royals franchise following a lucrative 11-year extension. His impressive skill set includes exceptional power and speed, making him one of the league's top five-tool players.
Tigers: Tarik Skubal, LHP (2018, Ninth Round)Tarik Skubal has emerged as a dominant starting pitcher, showcasing remarkable improvements in strikeout and walk rates. Following his Cy Young-winning season, he has reinforced his status as a generational ace in the American League.
Twins: Brent Rooker, OF (2017, Supplemental First Round)After brief stints with the Twins and other teams, Brent Rooker found success with the A's. His accolades include making the All-Star team in 2023 and winning a Silver Slugger Award in 2024, with back-to-back 30-home run seasons.
White Sox: Garrett Crochet, LHP (2020, First Round)Garrett Crochet made headlines as the first player to debut in the majors without prior professional experience since 2010. Despite setbacks due to surgery, he has thrived as a starter and has made multiple All-Star appearances.
Angels: Zach Neto, SS (2022, First Round)Drafted No. 13 overall, Zach Neto quickly became a key player for the Angels. Despite limited minor league games, he made a significant impact, holding his own as the club's everyday shortstop since his debut.
Astros: Alex Bregman, SS (2015, First Round)As the second overall pick in 2015, Alex Bregman has had a stellar career with the Astros, contributing to two World Series championships while earning numerous accolades, including a Gold Glove.
A’s: Jacob Wilson, SS (2023, First Round)Drafted sixth overall in 2023, Jacob Wilson is quickly making a name for himself. After a promising start to his career, he earned a spot in the 2025 All-Star Game, showcasing his potential as a future star.
Mariners: Logan Gilbert, RHP (2018, First Round)Logan Gilbert stands out among the Mariners' recent draft picks, earning All-Star recognition in 2024 with an impressive WAR. His performance has made him a key component of the team's rotation.
Rangers: Wyatt Langford, OF (2023, First Round)The No. 4 overall pick in 2023, Wyatt Langford has shown promise in his early career, batting .245 with 30 home runs and as many steals. His journey continues as he solidifies his role with the Rangers.
Braves: Austin Riley (2015, Supplemental First Round)Recognized for his hitting ability, Austin Riley has received multiple Silver Slugger Awards and remains a consistent performer for the Braves, ranking among the top players in MVP voting.
Marlins: Michael King, RHP (2016, Twelfth Round)Despite being the lowest-drafted player on this list, Michael King has exceeded expectations, transitioning from a reliever to a successful starter after joining the Padres.
Mets: Pete Crow-Armstrong, OF (2020, First Round)After overcoming injury setbacks, Pete Crow-Armstrong has emerged as a superstar with the Cubs, showcasing elite defensive skills and speed that make him a potential MVP candidate.
Nationals: Jesús Luzardo, LHP (2016, Third Round)Jesús Luzardo has had a dynamic career since being drafted, contributing to various teams and now playing a vital role in the Phillies' rotation as they aim for postseason success.
Phillies: Bryson Stott, SS (2019, First Round)Drafted 14th overall, Bryson Stott has established himself as a reliable second baseman, playing a key role in the Phillies' playoff appearances over the past three seasons.
Brewers: Corbin Burnes, RHP (2016, Fourth Round)Another standout from the 2016 draft, Corbin Burnes won the NL Cy Young in 2021 and continues to excel, despite facing challenges such as Tommy John surgery.
Cardinals: Zac Gallen, RHP (2016, Third Round)Zac Gallen has become a premier pitcher for the Diamondbacks after being traded from the Cardinals, consistently ranking among the top contenders in NL Cy Young voting.
Cubs: Nico Hoerner, SS (2018, First Round)Selected 24th overall, Nico Hoerner has become a foundational player for the Cubs, recognized for his defensive skills and reliable hitting, earning a Gold Glove in 2023.
Pirates: Paul Skenes, RHP (2023, First Round)As the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 draft, Paul Skenes has lived up to expectations, making an immediate impact and earning Rookie of the Year honors in 2024.
Reds: Hunter Greene, RHP (2017, First Round)Despite facing challenges early in his career, Hunter Greene has emerged as a strong performer, earning All-Star recognition and Cy Young Award votes in recent seasons.
D-backs: Corbin Carroll, OF (2019, First Round)Drafted 16th overall, Corbin Carroll has proven to be a dynamic force for the D-backs, winning NL Rookie of the Year and contributing significantly to the team's success.
Dodgers: Will Smith, C (2016, First Round)Will Smith has solidified his status as one of the top catchers in the league, contributing to the Dodgers' success with two World Series championships and leading the NL in batting average this season.
Giants: Bryan Reynolds, OF (2016, Second Round)Despite being traded to the Pirates, Bryan Reynolds has flourished, earning All-Star recognition and establishing himself as the best player in Pittsburgh.
Padres: Jackson Merrill, SS (2021, First Round)After being somewhat overlooked in the draft, Jackson Merrill has quickly risen through the ranks, becoming a vital player for the Padres at just 21 years old.
Rockies: Hunter Goodman, C (2021, Fourth Round)Known for his power, Hunter Goodman has developed into a well-rounded hitter, already exceeding his previous home run totals and earning an NL All-Star nod in 2025.
The journey of these players from draft day to MLB stardom underscores the significance of strategic selections. With talent like Tarik Skubal and Alex Bregman leading the way, teams are increasingly relying on their draft decisions to shape the future of their franchises.
