In the lead-up to the highly anticipated MLB Draft, rumors and speculations about which prospects each team will select in the first round are swirling. While nothing is set in stone until the actual draft takes place, there have been reports linking certain players to specific teams based on their preferences and needs. Here's a breakdown of some of the top prospects and the teams they're rumored to be connected with:

1. Kansas City Royals: The Royals, reportedly leaning towards pitching, are said to prefer college prospects over high school players. However, if they do go the prep route, Bryce Rainer is mentioned as a more likely choice compared to Griffin. Nonetheless, if top candidate Wetherholt is still available, it would be considered a gift for the Royals.

7. St. Louis Cardinals: The Cardinals are rumored to have interest in Wetherholt if he falls to them. However, Montgomery is also a potential option for them. Additionally, they would likely take one of the top two college pitchers available if they are still on the board.

8. Los Angeles Angels: The Angels, who have been linked to college players, are speculated to be targeting prospects who can potentially make an impact in the majors this year. It is uncertain whether left-handed pitcher Hagen Smith or Caglianone will be their preferred choice. There are also rumors circulating about Jurrangelo Cijntje, the switch-pitcher from Mississippi State, potentially being a top 10 pick, making the Angels the front-runners if that scenario unfolds.

9. Pittsburgh Pirates: Braden Montgomery, who suffered an ankle injury recently, is expected to be a top 10 pick despite concerns about his health. The Pirates have also been associated with James Tibbs III, Ryan Waldschmidt, Bryce Rainer, and Christian Moore.

10. Washington Nationals: With most of the obvious college prospects gone, the Nationals might have to consider the next tier of players. Trey Yesavage, Ryan Waldschmidt, Christian Moore, and Griffin are mentioned as potential options for them.

11. Detroit Tigers: The Tigers have reportedly shown interest in high school prospects Cam Caminiti and Griffin. They may have the opportunity to choose between the two.

12. Boston Red Sox: The Red Sox face a decision with Konnor Griffin, a wildcard prospect with the potential to be a top pick but concerns about hitting pro pitching. If he's off the board, they could turn their attention to college players such as Christian Moore, Ryan Waldschmidt, or Trey Yesavage.

13. San Francisco Giants: The Giants have been connected with Cam Caminiti throughout the spring. However, if Caminiti is selected earlier, they may also consider several college prospects like James Tibbs III, Christian Moore, Malcolm Moore, Trey Yesavage, Waldschmidt, or Carson Benge.

14. Chicago Cubs: Christian Moore, a highly regarded prospect, has gained attention from model analytics. The Cubs, known for taking unique talent, are reportedly interested in Moore and potentially even Carson Benge or Jurrangelo Cijntje.

15. Seattle Mariners: Jurrangelo Cijntje, the switch-pitching phenom from Mississippi State, is believed to be coveted by the Mariners. Pitching is reportedly their priority, and if top pitching prospects are not available, Cijntje could be their preferred choice.

16. Miami Marlins: Under new management, the Marlins are expected to take a different approach in this year's draft. They are predicted to focus on college players and prioritize models and metrics. Cam Smith, James Tibbs III, and Ryan Waldschmidt are all potential fits for the Marlins.

17. Milwaukee Brewers: The Brewers have had success in the draft by letting other teams make unexpected picks and grabbing talented players who slide down the board. Ryan Waldschmidt, James Tibbs, Cam Smith, and Carson Benge are mentioned as possible options for the team.

19. New York Mets: There have been long-standing connections between the Mets and outfielder/pitcher Carson Benge. Reports suggest that the Mets remain committed to selecting him in the first round.

As we approach the MLB Draft, the speculation surrounding the potential selections continues to grow. While these rumored connections give us an idea of the direction each team may take, it's important to remember that things can still change. Only time will tell who each team ultimately chooses as they aim to bolster their organizations with talented prospects.