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MLB Completes Two-Day Draft With College Hitters Up Front and Pitching Depth Later

Polished college hitters went early with teams now facing a July 27 signing deadline that will decide which prospects join pro rosters.

Overview

  • The two-day draft took place July 11–12 at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia and ran through 20 rounds with more than 600 players selected.
  • Coverage noted a clear opening-day tilt to college position players as teams sought pro-ready bats at the top of the board.
  • High picks included UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky at No. 1, Kentucky shortstop Tyler Bell at No. 10, and Tennessee right-hander Tegan Kuhns at No. 32.
  • Clubs balanced that early approach by loading later rounds with pitchers and high-upside prep arms, with the Braves prioritizing outfielders then prep arms and the Rockies targeting pitching across rounds 5–20.
  • The coming fortnight will focus on bonus-pool deals and signability as draftees have until 5 p.m. ET on July 27 to sign contracts and decide between pro pay and returning to college.