Orioles Pounce on Top Talent to Restock System in Latest MLB Mock Draft
Baltimore Orioles have been one of the most proactive teams in developing their farm system in recent years, and their approach to the latest MLB Mock Draft shows no signs of slowing down. With a strategy focused on acquiring top-tier talent, the Orioles have positioned themselves for long-term success by targeting high-upside prospects who could play key roles in their future.
Orioles’ Draft Strategy: Building for the Future
Baltimore has emphasized drafting versatile, high-ceiling players who can contribute at multiple positions. This year’s mock draft projections have the Orioles selecting a mix of elite college bats and promising young arms to replenish their already formidable farm system.
“Our philosophy remains the same—we’re looking for players who have the tools to impact the game in multiple ways,” said Orioles’ general manager Mike Elias. “We want hitters with advanced plate discipline and pitchers who can dominate at the next level.”
With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at some of the prospects the Orioles are projected to select in this year’s draft.
First-Round Projection: Dylan Crews, OF, LSU
The Orioles have their eyes on Dylan Crews, the standout outfielder from LSU who has been widely regarded as one of the top hitters in college baseball. Crews possesses elite bat speed, a disciplined approach at the plate, and the defensive skills to patrol center field in the majors.
“Crews has everything you want in a franchise outfielder,” said an anonymous MLB scout. “His ability to hit for power and average, combined with his speed and defensive ability, makes him a can’t-miss prospect.”
If Crews is available when the Orioles are on the clock, he could instantly become one of the top prospects in the organization.
Second-Round Steal: Chase Dollander, RHP, Tennessee
While the Orioles’ system has seen an influx of position player talent, they still need more frontline pitching prospects. Enter Chase Dollander, a right-handed pitcher from Tennessee who possesses one of the best fastballs in the draft class.
Dollander’s ability to locate his mid-to-upper 90s fastball, coupled with a sharp breaking ball, makes him an attractive option for Baltimore in the second round. If he continues to develop his command, he could rise quickly through the minor league ranks and become a key piece of the Orioles’ rotation.
High-Risk, High-Reward Pick: Aidan Miller, 3B, Florida HS
Baltimore has never shied away from selecting high school players with superstar potential, and Aidan Miller fits that mold perfectly. The Florida native is a power-hitting third baseman with elite exit velocities and a strong defensive profile.
At just 18 years old, Miller has plenty of time to develop, and with the Orioles’ track record of player development, he could turn into an impact player at the hot corner in a few years.
Later-Round Gems
Beyond the early rounds, the Orioles are expected to target high-upside prospects who can provide depth and versatility. A few names to keep an eye on include:
- Brock Wilken (3B, Wake Forest): A power-hitting infielder with an advanced approach at the plate.
- Trey Yesavage (RHP, East Carolina): A high-strikeout pitcher with a developing offspeed repertoire.
- Matt Shaw (SS, Maryland): A well-rounded middle infielder with above-average tools across the board.
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