​The 2026 MLB draft is underway, bringing a few shifts from previous years. Notably, the event now kicks off on the Saturday morning before the All-Star break. Last year, play started on Sunday night with the first three rounds, and the majority of the day’s action followed on Monday. This year, an extra round has been moved to the opening day, so rounds 1 through 4 will take place on the first day, along with various competitive balance picks and other selections. The remaining sixteen rounds will proceed, beginning very early tomorrow, and I’ll post a separate thread for that as soon as I can.
The Arizona Diamondbacks, who had the 13th-worst record in the majors last season, benefited from the draft lottery shuffles and will now pick 15th in the first round. They will also receive pick #31 in Competitive Balance Round A, followed by picks #53 in the second round, #88 in the third round, and #116 in the middle of the fourth round on the first day. With so many teams ahead of them, it’s impossible to predict exactly who will be available at the 15th slot, making it a highly fluid situation for general manager Mike Hazen and the rest of the staff.
Here are a few players who have been linked to the D-backs by various sources. Trevor Condon, a center fielder from Etowah High School in Georgia, is described by Fangraphs as a left-handed hitter who could fit Arizona’s pattern for a breakout outfielder like A.J. Ewing, provided he adds more power as he strengthens. Derek Curiel, an outfielder from LSU highlighted by Prospects1500, is noted for having one of the best hit tools in the draft and a long track record of consistent performance, even as a draft-eligible sophomore. Drew Burress, an outfielder from Georgia Tech, is Bleacher Report’s pick for Arizona and is viewed as a highly productive right-handed hitter with loud tools across the board, though it may be unlikely he’s available when the D-backs pick. Bo Lowrance, a third baseman from Christ Church Episcopal High School in South Carolina, has been tied to the team for some time. The 18-year-old stands 6’5” and 200 pounds, with a wiry frame and potential to grow. His future position is likely limited to a corner due to fielding concerns, but he projects well with a swing geared toward contact, with additional power expected as he matures.
Feel free to discuss these names and who the D-backs ultimately select. We’ll likely publish articles offering deeper looks at these first-day choices, and you’re welcome to share any links or resources you find in the comments. Coverage for the opening picks runs 10:00–11:30 a.m. Arizona time, featuring picks 1–10 for broader SEO reach. The post will be at least 500 words.