×
Three Trades the NBA Needs to Make Before the Deadline | Deadspin.com

Three Trades the NBA Needs to Make Before the Deadline | Deadspin.com

Sports news

Jan 23, 2026; Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA; Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) walks from the court following the game against the Denver Nuggets at Fiserv Forum. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images

The trade deadline is rapidly approaching and one of the biggest names in the NBA — in stature, not just number of letters — is a near-certainty to be swapped.

Last season, nobody knew Luka Dončić was available when the Los Angeles Lakers pulled off one of the biggest heists in NBA history from the Dallas Mavericks. But this time around, everybody knows that Giannis Antetokounmpo is unlikely to suit up again for the Milwaukee Bucks.

Antetokounmpo is sidelined with a calf injury and won’t be healthy until after the deadline. The Bucks are going nowhere fast and Giannis’ frustration level is reaching the boiling point now that he has passed his 31st birthday.

Giannis isn’t the only player that should be moved. There is no reason for DeMar DeRozan to be finishing out the season with the dismal Sacramento Kings. And if the New York Knicks think they can better last season’s run, they need to call the Portland Trail Blazers and land Jrue Holiday.

Giannis fit for Timberwolves

It was just earlier this month that two-time NBA MVP Antetokounmpo said it wasn’t his nature to ask the Bucks to trade him. Formal request or not, that was a pretty gigantic hint that he was ready to be moved. Where is the trickiest part.

Speculation about the Golden State Warriors being a possibility with injured Jimmy Butler III as part of the trade doesn’t seem realistic. He complained his way out of the winning Miami Heat culture, so why would he want anything to do with a Milwaukee team that will be among the worst teams in the NBA? The Bucks will want Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski while coach Steve Kerr will beg them to take Jonathan Kuminga.

Minnesota could build a package with Julius Randle and either Jaden McDaniels or Naz Reid (if you want Rudy Gobert instead, he’s all yours) and include some young assets and draft picks. You package Giannis with all-everything guard Anthony Edwards and the Timberwolves are finally getting over the hump and reaching the NBA Finals.

DeRozan’s short drive down freeway

The Sacramento Kings are one of the worst franchises in the NBA and the 36-year-old DeRozan has to be moved before the deadline. The Kings have all kinds of guards and wings like Zach LaVine, Keegan Murray, Russell Westbrook, Dennis Schröder, Malik Monk in addition to DeRozan, so some roster adjustments are deeply in order. Why are Westbrook, Schröder and Monk all on the same team?

One team that could use DeRozan is the Warriors. Now that Butler is lost for the season, Stephen Curry is in the same need of help he was a year ago before Golden State landed Butler from Miami. DeRozan, an unselfish player who can score 25 or 30 on any given night, would provide the Warriors with much-needed scoring punch.

The Kings would need to receive Trayce Jackson-Davis because Domantas Sabonis doesn’t have much help in the frontcourt. Golden State might try to dump Kuminga on the Kings or can get creative with some draft picks.

Backcourt defense needed at MSG

Nov 14, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets guard Aaron Holiday (0) defends against Portland Trail Blazers guard Jrue Holiday (5) during the third quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn ImagesNov 14, 2025; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Rockets guard Aaron Holiday (0) defends against Portland Trail Blazers guard Jrue Holiday (5) during the third quarter at Toyota Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

The New York Knicks are not a bad defensive team, but they can improve with one move at the deadline. If they want to reach the NBA Finals in a season where it’s wide open on the Eastern Conference side, they should obtain veteran guard Jrue Holiday.

The Trail Blazers are a better team than in recent years, but they are playing to land a play-in spot. Holiday can help get Portland there, of course, but the rebuilding project gets better for the Trail Blazers if they trade Holiday for some younger assets. Plus, Scoot Henderson’s season-long hamstring injury just may heal someday this season. (We think.)

Tyler Kolek and some draft assets might do the trick. If the Trail Blazers insist on Miles “Deuce” McBride, that gets Portland a little extra scoring pop. But the Knicks get a two-time NBA champion that will be worth more than whatever they give up.

Source link
#Trades #NBA #Deadline #Deadspin.com

Related Posts

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

Deadspin | Giants’ Trevor McDonald works to put summertime blues behind him vs. Rockies Jun 26, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; San Francisco Giants pitcher Trevor McDonald (72) throws to an Atlanta Braves batter during the top of the first inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images Trevor McDonald has had a rough rookie season with the San Francisco Giants, and the summer has been especially cruel. McDonald, who had four career appearances entering the 2026 season, will try to bounce back from a disastrous start in his most recent outing when the Giants host the Colorado Rockies on Sunday afternoon in the final game before the All-Star break. The month started with promise for McDonald (3-7, 5.46 ERA). The right-hander had lost six of seven starts — including four of five in June — but got the win on July 1 when he allowed one hit and no walks over scoreless six innings of a 6-4 defeat of the Arizona Diamondbacks. But just six days later, it all fell apart for McDonald. In a home game Tuesday against the Toronto Blue Jays, he surrendered eight runs and 11 hits in only 2 1/3 innings, taking the loss in the 9-3 game. It was the first time since 1998 that a Giants pitcher had given up at least 11 hits in 2 1/3 since Mark Gardner against the Montreal Expos in 1998. “I felt I was getting some soft contact and some early contact and them being a team that likes to swing and be on the attack, they found the holes,” McDonald said. Giants manager Tony Vitello did not fully agree. “There wasn’t a lot of hard contact, but there also was really comfortable swings,” Vitello said postgame. “They were kind of sitting on that deal there. Sinker was middle a lot, if you were going to criticize anything there. Kind of piled up on him a little too quick.” McDonald has faced the Rockies just once, and it invokes a good memory. It was Sept. 26, 2025, when he struck out 10 and allowed three unearned runs on four hits in seven innings against visiting Colorado. He did not walk a batter in a 6-3 win. McDonald will try to follow an outstanding effort by Tyler Mahle on Saturday in the Giants’ 4-2 victory. Mahle gave up a run on five hits in seven innings with three walks and four strikeouts. Despite the win, Vitello was ejected by plate umpire Lance Barksdale in the third inning after the Rockies’ Mickey Moniak was placed back at the plate after it appeared he had struck out. Colorado has lost three of its past four games and enters Sunday with a struggling pitcher of its own, but he is showing small signs of improvement. That’s veteran Michael Lorenzen (3-9, 6.46 ERA), who got his first win in eight decisions in an 8-5 triumph against the Minnesota Twins on June 27. Since then, he hasn’t gotten a decision in two starts, both of which the Rockies won. In two July games, Lorenzen has given up four earned runs on nine hits in 10 2/3 innings. He has struck out six and walked nine, and his season strikeout-to-walk ratio is 2.06. Lorenzen has plenty of experience against the Giants, facing them 12 times (six starts) in 12 seasons. He is 0-2 with a 6.68 ERA in those games. His most recent start against San Francisco came May 29, and he took a no-decision in a 8-6 win. He gave up three runs on five hits and two walks in 3 2/3 innings. The Rockies lost the series opener 8-2 on Thursday, then won on Friday, coming from behind for a 4-3 victory thanks to a ninth-inning rally. “That’s just how we play. We stay in ballgames,” rookie infielder Kyle Karros said. “We try to pick each other up.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Giants #Trevor #McDonald #works #put #summertime #blues #RockiesJun 26, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; San Francisco Giants pitcher Trevor McDonald (72) throws to an Atlanta Braves batter during the top of the first inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images

Trevor McDonald has had a rough rookie season with the San Francisco Giants, and the summer has been especially cruel.

McDonald, who had four career appearances entering the 2026 season, will try to bounce back from a disastrous start in his most recent outing when the Giants host the Colorado Rockies on Sunday afternoon in the final game before the All-Star break.

The month started with promise for McDonald (3-7, 5.46 ERA). The right-hander had lost six of seven starts — including four of five in June — but got the win on July 1 when he allowed one hit and no walks over scoreless six innings of a 6-4 defeat of the Arizona Diamondbacks.

But just six days later, it all fell apart for McDonald. In a home game Tuesday against the Toronto Blue Jays, he surrendered eight runs and 11 hits in only 2 1/3 innings, taking the loss in the 9-3 game.

It was the first time since 1998 that a Giants pitcher had given up at least 11 hits in 2 1/3 since Mark Gardner against the Montreal Expos in 1998.

“I felt I was getting some soft contact and some early contact and them being a team that likes to swing and be on the attack, they found the holes,” McDonald said.

Giants manager Tony Vitello did not fully agree.

“There wasn’t a lot of hard contact, but there also was really comfortable swings,” Vitello said postgame. “They were kind of sitting on that deal there. Sinker was middle a lot, if you were going to criticize anything there. Kind of piled up on him a little too quick.”

McDonald has faced the Rockies just once, and it invokes a good memory. It was Sept. 26, 2025, when he struck out 10 and allowed three unearned runs on four hits in seven innings against visiting Colorado. He did not walk a batter in a 6-3 win.


McDonald will try to follow an outstanding effort by Tyler Mahle on Saturday in the Giants’ 4-2 victory. Mahle gave up a run on five hits in seven innings with three walks and four strikeouts.

Despite the win, Vitello was ejected by plate umpire Lance Barksdale in the third inning after the Rockies’ Mickey Moniak was placed back at the plate after it appeared he had struck out.

Colorado has lost three of its past four games and enters Sunday with a struggling pitcher of its own, but he is showing small signs of improvement.

That’s veteran Michael Lorenzen (3-9, 6.46 ERA), who got his first win in eight decisions in an 8-5 triumph against the Minnesota Twins on June 27. Since then, he hasn’t gotten a decision in two starts, both of which the Rockies won.

In two July games, Lorenzen has given up four earned runs on nine hits in 10 2/3 innings. He has struck out six and walked nine, and his season strikeout-to-walk ratio is 2.06.

Lorenzen has plenty of experience against the Giants, facing them 12 times (six starts) in 12 seasons. He is 0-2 with a 6.68 ERA in those games.

His most recent start against San Francisco came May 29, and he took a no-decision in a 8-6 win. He gave up three runs on five hits and two walks in 3 2/3 innings.

The Rockies lost the series opener 8-2 on Thursday, then won on Friday, coming from behind for a 4-3 victory thanks to a ninth-inning rally.

“That’s just how we play. We stay in ballgames,” rookie infielder Kyle Karros said. “We try to pick each other up.”

–Field Level Media

#Deadspin #Giants #Trevor #McDonald #works #put #summertime #blues #Rockies">Deadspin | Giants’ Trevor McDonald works to put summertime blues behind him vs. Rockies Jun 26, 2026; San Francisco, California, USA; San Francisco Giants pitcher Trevor McDonald (72) throws to an Atlanta Braves batter during the top of the first inning at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Justine Willard-Imagn Images Trevor McDonald has had a rough rookie season with the San Francisco Giants, and the summer has been especially cruel. McDonald, who had four career appearances entering the 2026 season, will try to bounce back from a disastrous start in his most recent outing when the Giants host the Colorado Rockies on Sunday afternoon in the final game before the All-Star break. The month started with promise for McDonald (3-7, 5.46 ERA). The right-hander had lost six of seven starts — including four of five in June — but got the win on July 1 when he allowed one hit and no walks over scoreless six innings of a 6-4 defeat of the Arizona Diamondbacks. But just six days later, it all fell apart for McDonald. In a home game Tuesday against the Toronto Blue Jays, he surrendered eight runs and 11 hits in only 2 1/3 innings, taking the loss in the 9-3 game. It was the first time since 1998 that a Giants pitcher had given up at least 11 hits in 2 1/3 since Mark Gardner against the Montreal Expos in 1998. “I felt I was getting some soft contact and some early contact and them being a team that likes to swing and be on the attack, they found the holes,” McDonald said. Giants manager Tony Vitello did not fully agree. “There wasn’t a lot of hard contact, but there also was really comfortable swings,” Vitello said postgame. “They were kind of sitting on that deal there. Sinker was middle a lot, if you were going to criticize anything there. Kind of piled up on him a little too quick.” McDonald has faced the Rockies just once, and it invokes a good memory. It was Sept. 26, 2025, when he struck out 10 and allowed three unearned runs on four hits in seven innings against visiting Colorado. He did not walk a batter in a 6-3 win. McDonald will try to follow an outstanding effort by Tyler Mahle on Saturday in the Giants’ 4-2 victory. Mahle gave up a run on five hits in seven innings with three walks and four strikeouts. Despite the win, Vitello was ejected by plate umpire Lance Barksdale in the third inning after the Rockies’ Mickey Moniak was placed back at the plate after it appeared he had struck out. Colorado has lost three of its past four games and enters Sunday with a struggling pitcher of its own, but he is showing small signs of improvement. That’s veteran Michael Lorenzen (3-9, 6.46 ERA), who got his first win in eight decisions in an 8-5 triumph against the Minnesota Twins on June 27. Since then, he hasn’t gotten a decision in two starts, both of which the Rockies won. In two July games, Lorenzen has given up four earned runs on nine hits in 10 2/3 innings. He has struck out six and walked nine, and his season strikeout-to-walk ratio is 2.06. Lorenzen has plenty of experience against the Giants, facing them 12 times (six starts) in 12 seasons. He is 0-2 with a 6.68 ERA in those games. His most recent start against San Francisco came May 29, and he took a no-decision in a 8-6 win. He gave up three runs on five hits and two walks in 3 2/3 innings. The Rockies lost the series opener 8-2 on Thursday, then won on Friday, coming from behind for a 4-3 victory thanks to a ninth-inning rally. “That’s just how we play. We stay in ballgames,” rookie infielder Kyle Karros said. “We try to pick each other up.” –Field Level Media #Deadspin #Giants #Trevor #McDonald #works #put #summertime #blues #Rockies

Post Comment