×
Deadspin | Yankees’ Aaron Judge bids to continue power surge vs. Angels    Apr 13, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge (99) jogs to the dugout after the top of the second inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images   Aaron Judge’s best night of the season nearly went by the wayside because the New York Yankees struggled to get outs, especially against Mike Trout.  After surviving Trout’s two homers, the Yankees snapped their five-game skid with their wildest win of the early season. They hope to get a less stressful victory on Tuesday night when they host the Los Angeles Angels in the second contest of a four-game series.  New York’s past nine games have been decided by two runs or less. The Yankees improved to 3-6 in those games after Jose Caballero scored on a wild pitch by Jordan Romano in the ninth inning to record a wild 11-10 victory on Monday.  Judge hit a two-run homer in the first inning and a solo shot in the sixth to snap a 7-7 tie. He has three of his six homers in the past two games.  “Every good (team) goes through at least two big losing streaks,” said Judge, who is 11-for-36 in his past 10 games. “So hopefully we can get this one out of the way.”  Trent Grisham homered twice by belting a pinch-hit, three-run homer in the sixth inning and a tying two-run homer in the ninth before Caballero doubled and stole third ahead of the wild pitch.  Trout entered the series hitting .208 but felt encouraged by some of his at-bats in the series opener.  “He’s the greatest of all time,;he’s been fun to watch his whole career,” Judge said about Trout.  Trout launched a tying three-run homer off Jake Bird in the sixth inning immediately after Grisham’s first homer. Trout hit a two-run drive in the eighth off Camilo Doval to give the Angels an 10-8 lead.   “Honestly, you’ve been waiting for that because Mike’s been hitting the ball hard,” Los Angeles manager Kurt Suzuki said, “He’s been having some tough luck and putting some really good swings on the ball, and you’re kind of waiting for a game like this, and it was a good night to have it. Just tough luck coming on the losing end.”  Trout’s multi-homer game was achieved on a night in which the Angels collected 12 hits.   “It was definitely one of the better games,” said Trout, who has four homers and 12 RBIs this season. “Just a fun one to be a part of. Obviously the loss is disappointing, but throughout the whole game we battled back and had great at-bats the whole game. Sometimes they don’t go your way.”  After neither team saw their starter complete the fourth inning in the series opener, Ryan Weathers (0-1, 2.81 ERA) will look to do better on Tuesday for the Yankees when he opposes fellow left-hander Reid Detmers (0-1, 4.60).  After pitching a combined eight innings in no-decisions against the Seattle Mariners and Miami Marlins, Weathers allowed one run on seven hits in eight innings in a 1-0 loss to the Athletics on Thursday.  Weathers took the loss in his lone previous start against the Angels when he allowed three runs on four hits in three innings during a 10-2 defeat for the San Diego Padres on Sept. 28, 2021.  Detmers is 0-4 with an 8.36 ERA since his most recent win as a starter on Sept. 9, 2024, against the Minnesota Twins. He endured his worst start of his return to the rotation on Wednesday when he allowed six runs (five earned) in 4 1/3 innings of an 8-2 loss to the Atlanta Braves.  Detmers does not have a decision and has pitched 8 1/3 scoreless innings in five previous appearances against the Yankees.  –Field Level Media    #Deadspin #Yankees #Aaron #Judge #bids #continue #power #surge #Angels

Deadspin | Yankees’ Aaron Judge bids to continue power surge vs. Angels
Deadspin | Yankees’ Aaron Judge bids to continue power surge vs. Angels    Apr 13, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge (99) jogs to the dugout after the top of the second inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images   Aaron Judge’s best night of the season nearly went by the wayside because the New York Yankees struggled to get outs, especially against Mike Trout.  After surviving Trout’s two homers, the Yankees snapped their five-game skid with their wildest win of the early season. They hope to get a less stressful victory on Tuesday night when they host the Los Angeles Angels in the second contest of a four-game series.  New York’s past nine games have been decided by two runs or less. The Yankees improved to 3-6 in those games after Jose Caballero scored on a wild pitch by Jordan Romano in the ninth inning to record a wild 11-10 victory on Monday.  Judge hit a two-run homer in the first inning and a solo shot in the sixth to snap a 7-7 tie. He has three of his six homers in the past two games.  “Every good (team) goes through at least two big losing streaks,” said Judge, who is 11-for-36 in his past 10 games. “So hopefully we can get this one out of the way.”  Trent Grisham homered twice by belting a pinch-hit, three-run homer in the sixth inning and a tying two-run homer in the ninth before Caballero doubled and stole third ahead of the wild pitch.  Trout entered the series hitting .208 but felt encouraged by some of his at-bats in the series opener.  “He’s the greatest of all time,;he’s been fun to watch his whole career,” Judge said about Trout.  Trout launched a tying three-run homer off Jake Bird in the sixth inning immediately after Grisham’s first homer. Trout hit a two-run drive in the eighth off Camilo Doval to give the Angels an 10-8 lead.   “Honestly, you’ve been waiting for that because Mike’s been hitting the ball hard,” Los Angeles manager Kurt Suzuki said, “He’s been having some tough luck and putting some really good swings on the ball, and you’re kind of waiting for a game like this, and it was a good night to have it. Just tough luck coming on the losing end.”  Trout’s multi-homer game was achieved on a night in which the Angels collected 12 hits.   “It was definitely one of the better games,” said Trout, who has four homers and 12 RBIs this season. “Just a fun one to be a part of. Obviously the loss is disappointing, but throughout the whole game we battled back and had great at-bats the whole game. Sometimes they don’t go your way.”  After neither team saw their starter complete the fourth inning in the series opener, Ryan Weathers (0-1, 2.81 ERA) will look to do better on Tuesday for the Yankees when he opposes fellow left-hander Reid Detmers (0-1, 4.60).  After pitching a combined eight innings in no-decisions against the Seattle Mariners and Miami Marlins, Weathers allowed one run on seven hits in eight innings in a 1-0 loss to the Athletics on Thursday.  Weathers took the loss in his lone previous start against the Angels when he allowed three runs on four hits in three innings during a 10-2 defeat for the San Diego Padres on Sept. 28, 2021.  Detmers is 0-4 with an 8.36 ERA since his most recent win as a starter on Sept. 9, 2024, against the Minnesota Twins. He endured his worst start of his return to the rotation on Wednesday when he allowed six runs (five earned) in 4 1/3 innings of an 8-2 loss to the Atlanta Braves.  Detmers does not have a decision and has pitched 8 1/3 scoreless innings in five previous appearances against the Yankees.  –Field Level Media    #Deadspin #Yankees #Aaron #Judge #bids #continue #power #surge #AngelsApr 13, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge (99) jogs to the dugout after the top of the second inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images

Aaron Judge’s best night of the season nearly went by the wayside because the New York Yankees struggled to get outs, especially against Mike Trout.

After surviving Trout’s two homers, the Yankees snapped their five-game skid with their wildest win of the early season. They hope to get a less stressful victory on Tuesday night when they host the Los Angeles Angels in the second contest of a four-game series.

New York’s past nine games have been decided by two runs or less. The Yankees improved to 3-6 in those games after Jose Caballero scored on a wild pitch by Jordan Romano in the ninth inning to record a wild 11-10 victory on Monday.

Judge hit a two-run homer in the first inning and a solo shot in the sixth to snap a 7-7 tie. He has three of his six homers in the past two games.

“Every good (team) goes through at least two big losing streaks,” said Judge, who is 11-for-36 in his past 10 games. “So hopefully we can get this one out of the way.”

Trent Grisham homered twice by belting a pinch-hit, three-run homer in the sixth inning and a tying two-run homer in the ninth before Caballero doubled and stole third ahead of the wild pitch.

Trout entered the series hitting .208 but felt encouraged by some of his at-bats in the series opener.

“He’s the greatest of all time,;he’s been fun to watch his whole career,” Judge said about Trout.


Trout launched a tying three-run homer off Jake Bird in the sixth inning immediately after Grisham’s first homer. Trout hit a two-run drive in the eighth off Camilo Doval to give the Angels an 10-8 lead.

“Honestly, you’ve been waiting for that because Mike’s been hitting the ball hard,” Los Angeles manager Kurt Suzuki said, “He’s been having some tough luck and putting some really good swings on the ball, and you’re kind of waiting for a game like this, and it was a good night to have it. Just tough luck coming on the losing end.”

Trout’s multi-homer game was achieved on a night in which the Angels collected 12 hits.

“It was definitely one of the better games,” said Trout, who has four homers and 12 RBIs this season. “Just a fun one to be a part of. Obviously the loss is disappointing, but throughout the whole game we battled back and had great at-bats the whole game. Sometimes they don’t go your way.”

After neither team saw their starter complete the fourth inning in the series opener, Ryan Weathers (0-1, 2.81 ERA) will look to do better on Tuesday for the Yankees when he opposes fellow left-hander Reid Detmers (0-1, 4.60).

After pitching a combined eight innings in no-decisions against the Seattle Mariners and Miami Marlins, Weathers allowed one run on seven hits in eight innings in a 1-0 loss to the Athletics on Thursday.

Weathers took the loss in his lone previous start against the Angels when he allowed three runs on four hits in three innings during a 10-2 defeat for the San Diego Padres on Sept. 28, 2021.

Detmers is 0-4 with an 8.36 ERA since his most recent win as a starter on Sept. 9, 2024, against the Minnesota Twins. He endured his worst start of his return to the rotation on Wednesday when he allowed six runs (five earned) in 4 1/3 innings of an 8-2 loss to the Atlanta Braves.

Detmers does not have a decision and has pitched 8 1/3 scoreless innings in five previous appearances against the Yankees.


–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Yankees #Aaron #Judge #bids #continue #power #surge #Angels

Apr 13, 2026; Bronx, New York, USA; New York Yankees right fielder Aaron Judge (99) jogs to the dugout after the top of the second inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images

Aaron Judge’s best night of the season nearly went by the wayside because the New York Yankees struggled to get outs, especially against Mike Trout.

After surviving Trout’s two homers, the Yankees snapped their five-game skid with their wildest win of the early season. They hope to get a less stressful victory on Tuesday night when they host the Los Angeles Angels in the second contest of a four-game series.

New York’s past nine games have been decided by two runs or less. The Yankees improved to 3-6 in those games after Jose Caballero scored on a wild pitch by Jordan Romano in the ninth inning to record a wild 11-10 victory on Monday.

Judge hit a two-run homer in the first inning and a solo shot in the sixth to snap a 7-7 tie. He has three of his six homers in the past two games.

“Every good (team) goes through at least two big losing streaks,” said Judge, who is 11-for-36 in his past 10 games. “So hopefully we can get this one out of the way.”

Trent Grisham homered twice by belting a pinch-hit, three-run homer in the sixth inning and a tying two-run homer in the ninth before Caballero doubled and stole third ahead of the wild pitch.

Trout entered the series hitting .208 but felt encouraged by some of his at-bats in the series opener.

“He’s the greatest of all time,;he’s been fun to watch his whole career,” Judge said about Trout.

Trout launched a tying three-run homer off Jake Bird in the sixth inning immediately after Grisham’s first homer. Trout hit a two-run drive in the eighth off Camilo Doval to give the Angels an 10-8 lead.

“Honestly, you’ve been waiting for that because Mike’s been hitting the ball hard,” Los Angeles manager Kurt Suzuki said, “He’s been having some tough luck and putting some really good swings on the ball, and you’re kind of waiting for a game like this, and it was a good night to have it. Just tough luck coming on the losing end.”

Trout’s multi-homer game was achieved on a night in which the Angels collected 12 hits.

“It was definitely one of the better games,” said Trout, who has four homers and 12 RBIs this season. “Just a fun one to be a part of. Obviously the loss is disappointing, but throughout the whole game we battled back and had great at-bats the whole game. Sometimes they don’t go your way.”

After neither team saw their starter complete the fourth inning in the series opener, Ryan Weathers (0-1, 2.81 ERA) will look to do better on Tuesday for the Yankees when he opposes fellow left-hander Reid Detmers (0-1, 4.60).

After pitching a combined eight innings in no-decisions against the Seattle Mariners and Miami Marlins, Weathers allowed one run on seven hits in eight innings in a 1-0 loss to the Athletics on Thursday.

Weathers took the loss in his lone previous start against the Angels when he allowed three runs on four hits in three innings during a 10-2 defeat for the San Diego Padres on Sept. 28, 2021.

Detmers is 0-4 with an 8.36 ERA since his most recent win as a starter on Sept. 9, 2024, against the Minnesota Twins. He endured his worst start of his return to the rotation on Wednesday when he allowed six runs (five earned) in 4 1/3 innings of an 8-2 loss to the Atlanta Braves.

Detmers does not have a decision and has pitched 8 1/3 scoreless innings in five previous appearances against the Yankees.

–Field Level Media

Source link
#Deadspin #Yankees #Aaron #Judge #bids #continue #power #surge #Angels

Next week, the 2026 MLB All-Star Game gets underway at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.

But before this generation’s stars take the field, the next generation will take the stage in the City of Brotherly Love.

The 2026 MLB Draft gets underway on Saturday, and over 600 prospects will hear their names called during the 20 rounds that unfold, beginning with the Chicago White Sox at No. 1 overall. To get you ready, we have a mock draft to help set the stage.

For more on how the first round works, we have you covered here with this piece from Thursday. And a note on methodology: This is a “what I think will happen” mock draft, and not a “what I would do” mock draft. Mostly because I would draft Georgia catcher Daniel Jackson with every pick in that scenario. But there is still some “what I would do” sprinkled in …

Here are the picks, with some thoughts after.

Pick

Team

Player

Position

School

1Chicago White SoxRoch CholowskySSUCLA
2Tampa Bay RaysGrady EmersonSSFort Worth Christian HS (TX)
3Minnesota TwinsVahn LackeyCGeorgia Tech
4San Francisco GiantsDrew BurressOFGeorgia Tech
5Pittsburgh PiratesEric Booth Jr.OFOak Grove HS (MS)
6Kansas City RoyalsJackson FloraRHPUC Santa Barbara
7Baltimore OriolesJustin LebronSSAlabama
8AthleticsRyder HelfrickCArkansas
9Atlanta BravesJacob LombardSSGulliver Prep HS (FL)
10Colorado RockiesTyler BellSSKentucky
11Washington NationalsAce Reese3BMississippi State
12Los Angeles AngelsChristopher Hacopian2BTexas A&M
13St. Louis CardinalsDerek CurielOFLSU
14Miami MarlinsGio RojasLHPStoneman Douglas HS (FL)
15Arizona DiamondbacksTrevor CondonOFEtowah HS (GA)
16Texas RangersMason EdwardsLHPUSC
17Houston AstrosDaniel JacksonCGeorgia
18Cincinnati RedsAJ GraciaOFVirginia
19Cleveland GuardiansJared GrindlingerOF/LHPHuntington Beach HS (CA)
20Boston Red SoxCameron FlukeyRHPCoastal Carolina
21San Diego PadresZion RoseOFLouisville
22Detroit TigersHunter DietzLHPArkansas
23Chicago CubsLiam PetersonRHPFlorida
24Seattle MarinersTegan KuhnsRHPTennessee
25Milwaukee BrewersSawyer StrosniderOFTCU
26Atlanta BravesCarson BolemonLHPSouthside Christian HS (SC)
27New York MetsCole CarlonLHPArizona State
28Houston AstrosBrody BumilaLHPBishop Feehan HS (MA)
29San Francisco GiantsCameron BorthwickRHPSouth Walton HS (FL)
30Kansas City RoyalsAiden RuizSSThe Stony Brook School (NY)
31Arizona DiamondbacksLogan SchmidtLHPGanesha HS (CA)
32St. Louis CardinalsBo Lowrance3BChrist Church Episcopal HS (SC)
33Tampa Bay RaysAiden RobbinsOFTexas
34Pittsburgh PiratesCade TownsendRHPMississippi
35New York YankeesLogan ReddemannRHPUCLA
36Philadelphia PhilliesTaj MarchandSSJames Island HS (SC)
37Colorado RockiesJack RadelRHPNotre Dame

If you want to get a little deeper into this class, read on.

Let’s dive into the top ten selections a bit more.

1. Chicago White Sox: Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA

It is by no means a done deal, but UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky remains the consensus top player in the class. And with the White Sox trying to sign him out of high school, the pairing between player and team fits. But there is a lot to like about Texas high school shortstop Grady Emerson, as well as Georgia Tech’s Vahn Lackey, who stand out as the top three players in the class. Chicago likely goes with Cholowsky, who might have the highest floor of the three, but Emerson might have the highest ceiling.

2. Tampa Bay Rays: Grady Emerson, SS, Fort Worth Christian HS (TX)

If Cholowsky indeed comes off the board first, Tampa Bay runs to the podium for Emerson. The high school shortstop has a silky smooth swing from the left side of the plate, is coming off another monster season where he slashed .532/.648/1.013, and was just the second high school player in the past 48 years to be named a semifinalist for the Golden Spikes Award, joining Bobby Witt Jr. on that short list.

3. Minnesota Twins: Vahn Lackey, C, Georgia Tech

The Minnesota Twins sit in a decent spot, as they would be happy to take Vahn Lackey, who slashed .397/.519/.722 as part of Georgia Tech’s monster offense this season.

4. San Francisco Giants: Drew Burress, OF, Georgia Tech

This might be the first departure from consensus, as a bit of “what I would do” works its way into this mock draft. But in addition to Lackey, outfielder Drew Burress was a huge part of the Georgia Tech offense this past season. He slashed .358/.473/.675, while belting 16 home runs to break Jason Varitek’s school record of 57 career home runs, as Burress hit 60 during his time in college. The San Francisco Giants have been linked to several bats in this class, but Burress’ power stands out.

5. Pittsburgh Pirates: Eric Booth Jr., OF, Oak Grove HS (MS)

Mississippi outfielder Eric Booth Jr. is something of a consensus pick for the Pirates, and Pittsburgh dipped into the Mississippi prep waters recently with some success with Konnor Griffin. Eric Booth Jr. is considered the top prep outfielder in the 2026 MLB Draft class, hit .467 as a junior in 2025, and followed that with a .481/.699/.922 slash line this past year:

6. Kansas City Royals: Jackson Flora, RHP, UC Santa Barbara

It’s time for the first pitcher to come off the board, and it is UC Santa Barbara right-hander Jackson Flora. Flora set a new school record with 133 strikeouts this season, as he finished with a 12-0 record, an ERA of 1.06, and a WHIP of just 0.853. Flora features high-level velocity — his fastball rests in the upper 90s and hits triple digits regularly — but he can mix in two different sliders, as well as two different changeups.

Here’s a look at that fastball:

And now let’s mix in some of that breaking stuff:

If Flora is off the board, high school arm Gio Rojas could be a pick for Kansas City here.

7. Baltimore Orioles: Justin Lebron, SS, Alabama

Here is another selection where the college influence creeps into my mind. Consensus is mixed on Alabama shortstop Justin Lebron, who could come off the board anywhere from No. 8 to the late teens.

So I concede I might be higher on him than consensus, but the tools are there and the shortstop was critical to Alabama’s run to Omaha this season. According to multiple reports the Orioles are looking at college bats with this pick, and Lebron makes a great deal of sense.

8. Athletics: Ryder Helfrick, C, Arkansas

As noted by other outlets, the Athletics are looking at college bats, and Ryder Helfrick sliding to this spot would offer a nice combination of positional value and power at the plate. Helfrick slashed .305/.420/.616 for the Razorbacks in 2025 along with 15 home runs, and followed that with a .283/.417/.562 slash line in 2026 along with 18 big flies.

Plus, there is a track record of success with the wood bat, as he slashed .261/.323/.837 for Brewster on the Cape during the summer of 2024, along with 11 home runs.

9. Atlanta Braves: Jacob Lombard, SS, Gulliver Prep HS (FL)

This might be a bit low for Jacob Lombard, who is coming off boards earlier than this in other industry mock drafts. But with the board falling like this, the Braves would be happy to see Lombard available. The Florida infielder carries some “swing-and-miss” risk, particularly against upper-level velocity, but he offers an intriguing mix of power at the plate and speed on the bases.

10. Colorado Rockies: Tyler Bell, SS, Kentucky

The Colorado Rockies are another team linked to college bats in the 2026 MLB Draft, and Kentucky infielder Tyler Bell certainly fits the bill. Bell slashed an impressive .343/.510/.608 for the Wildcats this past season, with nine home runs.

The switch-hitter also has power from both sides of the plate. Here is a home run against West Virginia in the College World Series Regionals:

And here is a blast from the right side of the plate against Tennessee earlier this season:

That will work at Coors Field someday.

#MLB #mock #draft #Updated #projection #White #Sox #choosing #elite #players">MLB mock draft 2026: Updated projection with White Sox choosing between 3 elite players  Next week, the 2026 MLB All-Star Game gets underway at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.But before this generation’s stars take the field, the next generation will take the stage in the City of Brotherly Love.The 2026 MLB Draft gets underway on Saturday, and over 600 prospects will hear their names called during the 20 rounds that unfold, beginning with the Chicago White Sox at No. 1 overall. To get you ready, we have a mock draft to help set the stage.For more on how the first round works, we have you covered here with this piece from Thursday. And a note on methodology: This is a “what I think will happen” mock draft, and not a “what I would do” mock draft. Mostly because I would draft Georgia catcher Daniel Jackson with every pick in that scenario. But there is still some “what I would do” sprinkled in …Here are the picks, with some thoughts after.PickTeamPlayerPositionSchool1Chicago White SoxRoch CholowskySSUCLA2Tampa Bay RaysGrady EmersonSSFort Worth Christian HS (TX)3Minnesota TwinsVahn LackeyCGeorgia Tech4San Francisco GiantsDrew BurressOFGeorgia Tech5Pittsburgh PiratesEric Booth Jr.OFOak Grove HS (MS)6Kansas City RoyalsJackson FloraRHPUC Santa Barbara7Baltimore OriolesJustin LebronSSAlabama8AthleticsRyder HelfrickCArkansas9Atlanta BravesJacob LombardSSGulliver Prep HS (FL)10Colorado RockiesTyler BellSSKentucky11Washington NationalsAce Reese3BMississippi State12Los Angeles AngelsChristopher Hacopian2BTexas A&M13St. Louis CardinalsDerek CurielOFLSU14Miami MarlinsGio RojasLHPStoneman Douglas HS (FL)15Arizona DiamondbacksTrevor CondonOFEtowah HS (GA)16Texas RangersMason EdwardsLHPUSC17Houston AstrosDaniel JacksonCGeorgia18Cincinnati RedsAJ GraciaOFVirginia19Cleveland GuardiansJared GrindlingerOF/LHPHuntington Beach HS (CA)20Boston Red SoxCameron FlukeyRHPCoastal Carolina21San Diego PadresZion RoseOFLouisville22Detroit TigersHunter DietzLHPArkansas23Chicago CubsLiam PetersonRHPFlorida24Seattle MarinersTegan KuhnsRHPTennessee25Milwaukee BrewersSawyer StrosniderOFTCU26Atlanta BravesCarson BolemonLHPSouthside Christian HS (SC)27New York MetsCole CarlonLHPArizona State28Houston AstrosBrody BumilaLHPBishop Feehan HS (MA)29San Francisco GiantsCameron BorthwickRHPSouth Walton HS (FL)30Kansas City RoyalsAiden RuizSSThe Stony Brook School (NY)31Arizona DiamondbacksLogan SchmidtLHPGanesha HS (CA)32St. Louis CardinalsBo Lowrance3BChrist Church Episcopal HS (SC)33Tampa Bay RaysAiden RobbinsOFTexas34Pittsburgh PiratesCade TownsendRHPMississippi35New York YankeesLogan ReddemannRHPUCLA36Philadelphia PhilliesTaj MarchandSSJames Island HS (SC)37Colorado RockiesJack RadelRHPNotre DameIf you want to get a little deeper into this class, read on.Let’s dive into the top ten selections a bit more.1. Chicago White Sox: Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLAIt is by no means a done deal, but UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky remains the consensus top player in the class. And with the White Sox trying to sign him out of high school, the pairing between player and team fits. But there is a lot to like about Texas high school shortstop Grady Emerson, as well as Georgia Tech’s Vahn Lackey, who stand out as the top three players in the class. Chicago likely goes with Cholowsky, who might have the highest floor of the three, but Emerson might have the highest ceiling.2. Tampa Bay Rays: Grady Emerson, SS, Fort Worth Christian HS (TX)If Cholowsky indeed comes off the board first, Tampa Bay runs to the podium for Emerson. The high school shortstop has a silky smooth swing from the left side of the plate, is coming off another monster season where he slashed .532/.648/1.013, and was just the second high school player in the past 48 years to be named a semifinalist for the Golden Spikes Award, joining Bobby Witt Jr. on that short list.3. Minnesota Twins: Vahn Lackey, C, Georgia TechThe Minnesota Twins sit in a decent spot, as they would be happy to take Vahn Lackey, who slashed .397/.519/.722 as part of Georgia Tech’s monster offense this season.4. San Francisco Giants: Drew Burress, OF, Georgia TechThis might be the first departure from consensus, as a bit of “what I would do” works its way into this mock draft. But in addition to Lackey, outfielder Drew Burress was a huge part of the Georgia Tech offense this past season. He slashed .358/.473/.675, while belting 16 home runs to break Jason Varitek’s school record of 57 career home runs, as Burress hit 60 during his time in college. The San Francisco Giants have been linked to several bats in this class, but Burress’ power stands out.5. Pittsburgh Pirates: Eric Booth Jr., OF, Oak Grove HS (MS)Mississippi outfielder Eric Booth Jr. is something of a consensus pick for the Pirates, and Pittsburgh dipped into the Mississippi prep waters recently with some success with Konnor Griffin. Eric Booth Jr. is considered the top prep outfielder in the 2026 MLB Draft class, hit .467 as a junior in 2025, and followed that with a .481/.699/.922 slash line this past year:6. Kansas City Royals: Jackson Flora, RHP, UC Santa BarbaraIt’s time for the first pitcher to come off the board, and it is UC Santa Barbara right-hander Jackson Flora. Flora set a new school record with 133 strikeouts this season, as he finished with a 12-0 record, an ERA of 1.06, and a WHIP of just 0.853. Flora features high-level velocity — his fastball rests in the upper 90s and hits triple digits regularly — but he can mix in two different sliders, as well as two different changeups.Here’s a look at that fastball:And now let’s mix in some of that breaking stuff:If Flora is off the board, high school arm Gio Rojas could be a pick for Kansas City here.7. Baltimore Orioles: Justin Lebron, SS, AlabamaHere is another selection where the college influence creeps into my mind. Consensus is mixed on Alabama shortstop Justin Lebron, who could come off the board anywhere from No. 8 to the late teens.So I concede I might be higher on him than consensus, but the tools are there and the shortstop was critical to Alabama’s run to Omaha this season. According to multiple reports the Orioles are looking at college bats with this pick, and Lebron makes a great deal of sense.8. Athletics: Ryder Helfrick, C, ArkansasAs noted by other outlets, the Athletics are looking at college bats, and Ryder Helfrick sliding to this spot would offer a nice combination of positional value and power at the plate. Helfrick slashed .305/.420/.616 for the Razorbacks in 2025 along with 15 home runs, and followed that with a .283/.417/.562 slash line in 2026 along with 18 big flies.Plus, there is a track record of success with the wood bat, as he slashed .261/.323/.837 for Brewster on the Cape during the summer of 2024, along with 11 home runs.9. Atlanta Braves: Jacob Lombard, SS, Gulliver Prep HS (FL)This might be a bit low for Jacob Lombard, who is coming off boards earlier than this in other industry mock drafts. But with the board falling like this, the Braves would be happy to see Lombard available. The Florida infielder carries some “swing-and-miss” risk, particularly against upper-level velocity, but he offers an intriguing mix of power at the plate and speed on the bases.10. Colorado Rockies: Tyler Bell, SS, KentuckyThe Colorado Rockies are another team linked to college bats in the 2026 MLB Draft, and Kentucky infielder Tyler Bell certainly fits the bill. Bell slashed an impressive .343/.510/.608 for the Wildcats this past season, with nine home runs.The switch-hitter also has power from both sides of the plate. Here is a home run against West Virginia in the College World Series Regionals:And here is a blast from the right side of the plate against Tennessee earlier this season:That will work at Coors Field someday.  #MLB #mock #draft #Updated #projection #White #Sox #choosing #elite #players

2026 MLB Draft gets underway on Saturday, and over 600 prospects will hear their names called during the 20 rounds that unfold, beginning with the Chicago White Sox at No. 1 overall. To get you ready, we have a mock draft to help set the stage.

For more on how the first round works, we have you covered here with this piece from Thursday. And a note on methodology: This is a “what I think will happen” mock draft, and not a “what I would do” mock draft. Mostly because I would draft Georgia catcher Daniel Jackson with every pick in that scenario. But there is still some “what I would do” sprinkled in …

Here are the picks, with some thoughts after.

Pick

Team

Player

Position

School

1Chicago White SoxRoch CholowskySSUCLA
2Tampa Bay RaysGrady EmersonSSFort Worth Christian HS (TX)
3Minnesota TwinsVahn LackeyCGeorgia Tech
4San Francisco GiantsDrew BurressOFGeorgia Tech
5Pittsburgh PiratesEric Booth Jr.OFOak Grove HS (MS)
6Kansas City RoyalsJackson FloraRHPUC Santa Barbara
7Baltimore OriolesJustin LebronSSAlabama
8AthleticsRyder HelfrickCArkansas
9Atlanta BravesJacob LombardSSGulliver Prep HS (FL)
10Colorado RockiesTyler BellSSKentucky
11Washington NationalsAce Reese3BMississippi State
12Los Angeles AngelsChristopher Hacopian2BTexas A&M
13St. Louis CardinalsDerek CurielOFLSU
14Miami MarlinsGio RojasLHPStoneman Douglas HS (FL)
15Arizona DiamondbacksTrevor CondonOFEtowah HS (GA)
16Texas RangersMason EdwardsLHPUSC
17Houston AstrosDaniel JacksonCGeorgia
18Cincinnati RedsAJ GraciaOFVirginia
19Cleveland GuardiansJared GrindlingerOF/LHPHuntington Beach HS (CA)
20Boston Red SoxCameron FlukeyRHPCoastal Carolina
21San Diego PadresZion RoseOFLouisville
22Detroit TigersHunter DietzLHPArkansas
23Chicago CubsLiam PetersonRHPFlorida
24Seattle MarinersTegan KuhnsRHPTennessee
25Milwaukee BrewersSawyer StrosniderOFTCU
26Atlanta BravesCarson BolemonLHPSouthside Christian HS (SC)
27New York MetsCole CarlonLHPArizona State
28Houston AstrosBrody BumilaLHPBishop Feehan HS (MA)
29San Francisco GiantsCameron BorthwickRHPSouth Walton HS (FL)
30Kansas City RoyalsAiden RuizSSThe Stony Brook School (NY)
31Arizona DiamondbacksLogan SchmidtLHPGanesha HS (CA)
32St. Louis CardinalsBo Lowrance3BChrist Church Episcopal HS (SC)
33Tampa Bay RaysAiden RobbinsOFTexas
34Pittsburgh PiratesCade TownsendRHPMississippi
35New York YankeesLogan ReddemannRHPUCLA
36Philadelphia PhilliesTaj MarchandSSJames Island HS (SC)
37Colorado RockiesJack RadelRHPNotre Dame

If you want to get a little deeper into this class, read on.

Let’s dive into the top ten selections a bit more.

1. Chicago White Sox: Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA

It is by no means a done deal, but UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky remains the consensus top player in the class. And with the White Sox trying to sign him out of high school, the pairing between player and team fits. But there is a lot to like about Texas high school shortstop Grady Emerson, as well as Georgia Tech’s Vahn Lackey, who stand out as the top three players in the class. Chicago likely goes with Cholowsky, who might have the highest floor of the three, but Emerson might have the highest ceiling.

2. Tampa Bay Rays: Grady Emerson, SS, Fort Worth Christian HS (TX)

If Cholowsky indeed comes off the board first, Tampa Bay runs to the podium for Emerson. The high school shortstop has a silky smooth swing from the left side of the plate, is coming off another monster season where he slashed .532/.648/1.013, and was just the second high school player in the past 48 years to be named a semifinalist for the Golden Spikes Award, joining Bobby Witt Jr. on that short list.

3. Minnesota Twins: Vahn Lackey, C, Georgia Tech

The Minnesota Twins sit in a decent spot, as they would be happy to take Vahn Lackey, who slashed .397/.519/.722 as part of Georgia Tech’s monster offense this season.

4. San Francisco Giants: Drew Burress, OF, Georgia Tech

This might be the first departure from consensus, as a bit of “what I would do” works its way into this mock draft. But in addition to Lackey, outfielder Drew Burress was a huge part of the Georgia Tech offense this past season. He slashed .358/.473/.675, while belting 16 home runs to break Jason Varitek’s school record of 57 career home runs, as Burress hit 60 during his time in college. The San Francisco Giants have been linked to several bats in this class, but Burress’ power stands out.

5. Pittsburgh Pirates: Eric Booth Jr., OF, Oak Grove HS (MS)

Mississippi outfielder Eric Booth Jr. is something of a consensus pick for the Pirates, and Pittsburgh dipped into the Mississippi prep waters recently with some success with Konnor Griffin. Eric Booth Jr. is considered the top prep outfielder in the 2026 MLB Draft class, hit .467 as a junior in 2025, and followed that with a .481/.699/.922 slash line this past year:

6. Kansas City Royals: Jackson Flora, RHP, UC Santa Barbara

It’s time for the first pitcher to come off the board, and it is UC Santa Barbara right-hander Jackson Flora. Flora set a new school record with 133 strikeouts this season, as he finished with a 12-0 record, an ERA of 1.06, and a WHIP of just 0.853. Flora features high-level velocity — his fastball rests in the upper 90s and hits triple digits regularly — but he can mix in two different sliders, as well as two different changeups.

Here’s a look at that fastball:

And now let’s mix in some of that breaking stuff:

If Flora is off the board, high school arm Gio Rojas could be a pick for Kansas City here.

7. Baltimore Orioles: Justin Lebron, SS, Alabama

Here is another selection where the college influence creeps into my mind. Consensus is mixed on Alabama shortstop Justin Lebron, who could come off the board anywhere from No. 8 to the late teens.

So I concede I might be higher on him than consensus, but the tools are there and the shortstop was critical to Alabama’s run to Omaha this season. According to multiple reports the Orioles are looking at college bats with this pick, and Lebron makes a great deal of sense.

8. Athletics: Ryder Helfrick, C, Arkansas

As noted by other outlets, the Athletics are looking at college bats, and Ryder Helfrick sliding to this spot would offer a nice combination of positional value and power at the plate. Helfrick slashed .305/.420/.616 for the Razorbacks in 2025 along with 15 home runs, and followed that with a .283/.417/.562 slash line in 2026 along with 18 big flies.

Plus, there is a track record of success with the wood bat, as he slashed .261/.323/.837 for Brewster on the Cape during the summer of 2024, along with 11 home runs.

9. Atlanta Braves: Jacob Lombard, SS, Gulliver Prep HS (FL)

This might be a bit low for Jacob Lombard, who is coming off boards earlier than this in other industry mock drafts. But with the board falling like this, the Braves would be happy to see Lombard available. The Florida infielder carries some “swing-and-miss” risk, particularly against upper-level velocity, but he offers an intriguing mix of power at the plate and speed on the bases.

10. Colorado Rockies: Tyler Bell, SS, Kentucky

The Colorado Rockies are another team linked to college bats in the 2026 MLB Draft, and Kentucky infielder Tyler Bell certainly fits the bill. Bell slashed an impressive .343/.510/.608 for the Wildcats this past season, with nine home runs.

The switch-hitter also has power from both sides of the plate. Here is a home run against West Virginia in the College World Series Regionals:

And here is a blast from the right side of the plate against Tennessee earlier this season:

That will work at Coors Field someday.

#MLB #mock #draft #Updated #projection #White #Sox #choosing #elite #players">MLB mock draft 2026: Updated projection with White Sox choosing between 3 elite players

Next week, the 2026 MLB All-Star Game gets underway at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.

But before this generation’s stars take the field, the next generation will take the stage in the City of Brotherly Love.

The 2026 MLB Draft gets underway on Saturday, and over 600 prospects will hear their names called during the 20 rounds that unfold, beginning with the Chicago White Sox at No. 1 overall. To get you ready, we have a mock draft to help set the stage.

For more on how the first round works, we have you covered here with this piece from Thursday. And a note on methodology: This is a “what I think will happen” mock draft, and not a “what I would do” mock draft. Mostly because I would draft Georgia catcher Daniel Jackson with every pick in that scenario. But there is still some “what I would do” sprinkled in …

Here are the picks, with some thoughts after.

Pick

Team

Player

Position

School

1Chicago White SoxRoch CholowskySSUCLA
2Tampa Bay RaysGrady EmersonSSFort Worth Christian HS (TX)
3Minnesota TwinsVahn LackeyCGeorgia Tech
4San Francisco GiantsDrew BurressOFGeorgia Tech
5Pittsburgh PiratesEric Booth Jr.OFOak Grove HS (MS)
6Kansas City RoyalsJackson FloraRHPUC Santa Barbara
7Baltimore OriolesJustin LebronSSAlabama
8AthleticsRyder HelfrickCArkansas
9Atlanta BravesJacob LombardSSGulliver Prep HS (FL)
10Colorado RockiesTyler BellSSKentucky
11Washington NationalsAce Reese3BMississippi State
12Los Angeles AngelsChristopher Hacopian2BTexas A&M
13St. Louis CardinalsDerek CurielOFLSU
14Miami MarlinsGio RojasLHPStoneman Douglas HS (FL)
15Arizona DiamondbacksTrevor CondonOFEtowah HS (GA)
16Texas RangersMason EdwardsLHPUSC
17Houston AstrosDaniel JacksonCGeorgia
18Cincinnati RedsAJ GraciaOFVirginia
19Cleveland GuardiansJared GrindlingerOF/LHPHuntington Beach HS (CA)
20Boston Red SoxCameron FlukeyRHPCoastal Carolina
21San Diego PadresZion RoseOFLouisville
22Detroit TigersHunter DietzLHPArkansas
23Chicago CubsLiam PetersonRHPFlorida
24Seattle MarinersTegan KuhnsRHPTennessee
25Milwaukee BrewersSawyer StrosniderOFTCU
26Atlanta BravesCarson BolemonLHPSouthside Christian HS (SC)
27New York MetsCole CarlonLHPArizona State
28Houston AstrosBrody BumilaLHPBishop Feehan HS (MA)
29San Francisco GiantsCameron BorthwickRHPSouth Walton HS (FL)
30Kansas City RoyalsAiden RuizSSThe Stony Brook School (NY)
31Arizona DiamondbacksLogan SchmidtLHPGanesha HS (CA)
32St. Louis CardinalsBo Lowrance3BChrist Church Episcopal HS (SC)
33Tampa Bay RaysAiden RobbinsOFTexas
34Pittsburgh PiratesCade TownsendRHPMississippi
35New York YankeesLogan ReddemannRHPUCLA
36Philadelphia PhilliesTaj MarchandSSJames Island HS (SC)
37Colorado RockiesJack RadelRHPNotre Dame

If you want to get a little deeper into this class, read on.

Let’s dive into the top ten selections a bit more.

1. Chicago White Sox: Roch Cholowsky, SS, UCLA

It is by no means a done deal, but UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky remains the consensus top player in the class. And with the White Sox trying to sign him out of high school, the pairing between player and team fits. But there is a lot to like about Texas high school shortstop Grady Emerson, as well as Georgia Tech’s Vahn Lackey, who stand out as the top three players in the class. Chicago likely goes with Cholowsky, who might have the highest floor of the three, but Emerson might have the highest ceiling.

2. Tampa Bay Rays: Grady Emerson, SS, Fort Worth Christian HS (TX)

If Cholowsky indeed comes off the board first, Tampa Bay runs to the podium for Emerson. The high school shortstop has a silky smooth swing from the left side of the plate, is coming off another monster season where he slashed .532/.648/1.013, and was just the second high school player in the past 48 years to be named a semifinalist for the Golden Spikes Award, joining Bobby Witt Jr. on that short list.

3. Minnesota Twins: Vahn Lackey, C, Georgia Tech

The Minnesota Twins sit in a decent spot, as they would be happy to take Vahn Lackey, who slashed .397/.519/.722 as part of Georgia Tech’s monster offense this season.

4. San Francisco Giants: Drew Burress, OF, Georgia Tech

This might be the first departure from consensus, as a bit of “what I would do” works its way into this mock draft. But in addition to Lackey, outfielder Drew Burress was a huge part of the Georgia Tech offense this past season. He slashed .358/.473/.675, while belting 16 home runs to break Jason Varitek’s school record of 57 career home runs, as Burress hit 60 during his time in college. The San Francisco Giants have been linked to several bats in this class, but Burress’ power stands out.

5. Pittsburgh Pirates: Eric Booth Jr., OF, Oak Grove HS (MS)

Mississippi outfielder Eric Booth Jr. is something of a consensus pick for the Pirates, and Pittsburgh dipped into the Mississippi prep waters recently with some success with Konnor Griffin. Eric Booth Jr. is considered the top prep outfielder in the 2026 MLB Draft class, hit .467 as a junior in 2025, and followed that with a .481/.699/.922 slash line this past year:

6. Kansas City Royals: Jackson Flora, RHP, UC Santa Barbara

It’s time for the first pitcher to come off the board, and it is UC Santa Barbara right-hander Jackson Flora. Flora set a new school record with 133 strikeouts this season, as he finished with a 12-0 record, an ERA of 1.06, and a WHIP of just 0.853. Flora features high-level velocity — his fastball rests in the upper 90s and hits triple digits regularly — but he can mix in two different sliders, as well as two different changeups.

Here’s a look at that fastball:

And now let’s mix in some of that breaking stuff:

If Flora is off the board, high school arm Gio Rojas could be a pick for Kansas City here.

7. Baltimore Orioles: Justin Lebron, SS, Alabama

Here is another selection where the college influence creeps into my mind. Consensus is mixed on Alabama shortstop Justin Lebron, who could come off the board anywhere from No. 8 to the late teens.

So I concede I might be higher on him than consensus, but the tools are there and the shortstop was critical to Alabama’s run to Omaha this season. According to multiple reports the Orioles are looking at college bats with this pick, and Lebron makes a great deal of sense.

8. Athletics: Ryder Helfrick, C, Arkansas

As noted by other outlets, the Athletics are looking at college bats, and Ryder Helfrick sliding to this spot would offer a nice combination of positional value and power at the plate. Helfrick slashed .305/.420/.616 for the Razorbacks in 2025 along with 15 home runs, and followed that with a .283/.417/.562 slash line in 2026 along with 18 big flies.

Plus, there is a track record of success with the wood bat, as he slashed .261/.323/.837 for Brewster on the Cape during the summer of 2024, along with 11 home runs.

9. Atlanta Braves: Jacob Lombard, SS, Gulliver Prep HS (FL)

This might be a bit low for Jacob Lombard, who is coming off boards earlier than this in other industry mock drafts. But with the board falling like this, the Braves would be happy to see Lombard available. The Florida infielder carries some “swing-and-miss” risk, particularly against upper-level velocity, but he offers an intriguing mix of power at the plate and speed on the bases.

10. Colorado Rockies: Tyler Bell, SS, Kentucky

The Colorado Rockies are another team linked to college bats in the 2026 MLB Draft, and Kentucky infielder Tyler Bell certainly fits the bill. Bell slashed an impressive .343/.510/.608 for the Wildcats this past season, with nine home runs.

The switch-hitter also has power from both sides of the plate. Here is a home run against West Virginia in the College World Series Regionals:

And here is a blast from the right side of the plate against Tennessee earlier this season:

That will work at Coors Field someday.

#MLB #mock #draft #Updated #projection #White #Sox #choosing #elite #players

Jannik Sinner retained his Wimbledon title by beating Alexander Zverev 6-7(7), ​7-6(2), 6-3, 6-4 in the final on Sunday to claim ‌his fifth Grand Slam crown and extend ​his dominance over the German to 10 ⁠straight victories.

The win placed Sinner in rare company as the 10th man in the professional era to successfully defend the ‌title, strengthening his credentials as one of the dominant players of his generation while he ‌chases down big rival Carlos Alcaraz’s seven majors.

Both ‌finalists ⁠slugged it out for 12 games in ⁠a high-octane first set on a warm and windy afternoon, before Zverev moved up a gear and hit a powerful forehand winner ​to clinch a gripping ‌tiebreak, yelling and crouching down in celebration.

The clean ball-striking continued but Zverev began to show signs of frustration late in the second set, where a ‌much more animated Sinner gained the upper hand ​in the tiebreak and went on to level the contest at one set apiece.

Zverev brought ⁠up his first break point midway through the third set after more than 2-1/2 hours, but slipped and ‌fell to the ground after being wrong-footed by a Sinner drop shot. With Zverev screaming out in agony, the Centre Court crowd gasped when he rolled onto his back clutching his right knee.

The second seed dusted himself off and carried on but was ‌left seething when Sinner pounced in the next game to break ​for a 5-3 lead, slamming his racket to the floor, and soon found himself trailing ⁠the Italian two-sets-to-one after nearly three hours of battle.

Sinner ⁠broke again for a 4-3 advantage in the fourth set as Zverev’s level briefly dipped, and ‌the 24-year-old held firm in an entertaining spell to complete the victory and then collapsed to ​the threadbare turf in celebration.

Published on Jul 13, 2026

#Jannik #Sinner #defeats #Alexander #Zverev #win #consecutive #Wimbledon #title">Jannik Sinner defeats Alexander Zverev to win second consecutive Wimbledon title  Jannik Sinner retained his Wimbledon title by beating Alexander Zverev 6-7(7), ​7-6(2), 6-3, 6-4 in the final on Sunday to claim ‌his fifth Grand Slam crown and extend ​his dominance over the German to 10 ⁠straight victories.The win placed Sinner in rare company as the 10th man in the professional era to successfully defend the ‌title, strengthening his credentials as one of the dominant players of his generation while he ‌chases down big rival Carlos Alcaraz’s seven majors.Both ‌finalists ⁠slugged it out for 12 games in ⁠a high-octane first set on a warm and windy afternoon, before Zverev moved up a gear and hit a powerful forehand winner ​to clinch a gripping ‌tiebreak, yelling and crouching down in celebration.The clean ball-striking continued but Zverev began to show signs of frustration late in the second set, where a ‌much more animated Sinner gained the upper hand ​in the tiebreak and went on to level the contest at one set apiece.Zverev brought ⁠up his first break point midway through the third set after more than 2-1/2 hours, but slipped and ‌fell to the ground after being wrong-footed by a Sinner drop shot. With Zverev screaming out in agony, the Centre Court crowd gasped when he rolled onto his back clutching his right knee.The second seed dusted himself off and carried on but was ‌left seething when Sinner pounced in the next game to break ​for a 5-3 lead, slamming his racket to the floor, and soon found himself trailing ⁠the Italian two-sets-to-one after nearly three hours of battle.Sinner ⁠broke again for a 4-3 advantage in the fourth set as Zverev’s level briefly dipped, and ‌the 24-year-old held firm in an entertaining spell to complete the victory and then collapsed to ​the threadbare turf in celebration.Published on Jul 13, 2026  #Jannik #Sinner #defeats #Alexander #Zverev #win #consecutive #Wimbledon #title

Post Comment