​Day 2 of the 2026 MLB Draft, after the first four rounds wrapped up, shifts the spotlight to uncover more hidden gems and complete draft classes from Rounds 5 through 20 on Sunday as MLB All-Star Week unfolds in Philadelphia. The Sporting News originally published this Best Available Talent headlines and has noted The Sporting News as a preferred source. With the early rounds behind us, teams will be scanning the remaining pool for potential impact players who can bolster farm systems for years to come.
The opening day featured expected selections at the top, including shortstop Roch Cholowsky heading to the Chicago White Sox, Grady Emerson landing with the Tampa Bay Rays, and Vahn Lackey joining the Minnesota Twins. Yet, a solid cadre of highly regarded prospects remains on the board as Sunday action approaches. Among the biggest names still available is Archer Horn, a California high school shortstop ranked No. 54 on MLB Pipeline’s Top 250 list. Horn combines impressive bat speed with a strong throwing arm that can reach 95 mph from the mound, and he shows developing power potential from the left side. While there are questions about whether he will remain at shortstop long term, his overall athletic profile makes him one of the top remaining talents. Horn has committed to Stanford.
Another compelling name is Blake Bowen from JSerra Catholic High School in California. The 6-foot-3 outfielder brings plus-plus raw power together with above-average speed and arm strength, providing him with the tools to become a game-changing player. His swing-and-miss tendencies have cooled some clubs’ interest, but his upside remains among the highest still on the board. Bowen is committed to Oregon State.
Georgia native Joseph Contreras also enters Day 2 as one of the draft’s most intriguing prospects. The son of former MLB All-Star José Contreras, the Blessed Trinity High School right-hander already has international experience, having pitched for Brazil in the World Baseball Classic at just 17 years old. He features a fastball that can reach 95 mph and a standout forkball, plus a projectable frame that scouts covet. Contreras is committed to Vanderbilt.
Left-hander Carson Bailey remains in the mix after injuries limited him to just 23 2/3 innings this season at McLennan Community College. When healthy, Bailey has shown a sinking mid-90s fastball and a repertoire that could develop into a solid professional starter.
Shortstop Ethan Bass is another top name on the board. The Illinois prep standout is considered one of the better defensive infielders in the class, thanks to his speed and plus arm, though his offensive game is still a work in progress.
History shows that Day 2 can yield future stars, and with several premium talents still waiting to hear their names called, Sunday’s remaining rounds hold the potential to deliver substantial value for MLB organizations looking to strengthen their farm systems.
As teams prepare for Days 2 through 3 of the draft, discussions about realistic trade scenarios continue, including debates over how headlines and prospects may shift the balance of power in the weeks and months ahead. Additionally, questions persist about how potential changes to branding and SEO strategies might influence visibility for top prospects and future coverage of the draft.