Evaluating Last Year's Top Picks in Major League Baseball

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ICARO Media Group
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07/06/2024 18h55

As the highly anticipated Major League Baseball amateur draft approaches in just a few weeks, it's a perfect time to reflect on the performances of last year's top picks. The first round of the draft is scheduled to kick off on Sunday, July 14, coinciding with the start of the All-Star Game festivities. Let's take a moment to revisit the standout players from the 2020 draft class.

One notable player from last year's draft class is center fielder Enrique Bradfield. Bradfield was a controversial prospect leading up to the draft, drawing comparisons to speed-and-defense outfielders like Myles Straw. Throughout his professional career, Bradfield has continued to showcase his speed and defensive prowess, relying on his secondary skills to make an impact on the field.

Kyle Teel, a promising catcher for the Boston Red Sox, has displayed impressive hitting ability at the Double-A level and has shown promise on the defensive end. With a good athletic ability and a solid defensive game, Teel is considered a potential catcher of the future for the Red Sox, expected to debut next spring after gaining more professional experience.

Jacob Gonzalez, a shortstop with SEC experience, started the season slowly but turned things around in May, earning a promotion to Double-A. Though lacking a standout tool, Gonzalez has shown a knack for contact and may make his way to the majors before next spring.

Ralphy Velazquez, a talented first baseman, has transitioned smoothly to the professional level, hitting well and making an impact with his above-average power. While he has been exclusively playing first base for the Guardians, he has proven himself as a player to watch.

Outfielder Max Clark, the third pick of last year's draft, has displayed a good eye at the plate and has shown nearly equal numbers of walks and strikeouts despite being younger than his peers. With impressive speed and a solid defensive skill set, Clark is projected to be a top-of-the-order type player for his team.

Due to lower back discomfort, Brice Matthews has been limited to only 10 games this season. However, when healthy, Matthews showcases a tantalizing power-speed combination from his position as a shortstop.

Blake Mitchell, a promising young catcher in the Carolina League, has showcased impressive power but also struggles with strikeouts. Despite that, Mitchell's young age compared to his opponents inspires optimism for his future success.

Nolan Schanuel, an immobile first baseman for the Angels, has had a challenging time displaying strength at the plate. While improvements are still possible, doubts have emerged about his long-term prospects with the Angels.

Walker Jenkins, the fifth overall pick in last year's draft, suffered a hamstring injury early in the season but has recently returned to play, making an impact against less experienced pitchers.

George Lombard, selected by the Yankees for his offensive potential, has yet to fully display his skills on the stat sheet. However, being significantly younger than his opponents allows for patience and potential growth.

Jacob Wilson, an extreme contact hitter, has struck out rarely but struggles with the quality of his contact. Unfortunately, his season was interrupted by a knee issue, and his potential impact in the majors remains uncertain.

Colt Emerson, a left-handed hitting infielder, got off to a solid start in the Cal League before suffering a foot fracture. Despite the setback, he has shown promise and continued development for the Mariners.

Brayden Taylor, a two-way player splitting his defensive responsibilities between shortstop and third base, has embraced a lift-and-pull hitting approach. The Rays organization has shown confidence in his abilities, and he should advance to Double-A soon.

Wyatt Langford, the fourth overall pick, impressed in the minors and earned a spot on the Rangers' Opening Day roster. Though he experienced a hamstring injury, Langford has shown a good feel for contact and is expected to settle in and make a notable impact.

Arjun Nimmala, a long-term prospect, has faced challenges in his introduction to full-season ball but has displayed indicators of his potential as a premium shortstop. Given his young age and promising skill set, patience is key for Nimmala's development.

As the MLB amateur draft approaches, last year's top picks have showcased their skills and potential in the professional ranks. While there may be some concerns and setbacks, many of these players have proven themselves capable of making an impact as they continue to progress in their careers.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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