The 2026 MLB Draft is now complete, and the Tampa Bay Rays did a good job getting a good mix of prospects that can be fanned out across their minor leagues.As most will focus on the 2nd overall pick, Grady Emerson, and for good reason, the rest of the class is definitely worth paying attention to, especially with the Tampa Bay organization, which strives to develop talent regardless of the round they are drafted.AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHere are three other top selections that really stood out to me, besides Emerson.Taj Marchand (SS, Round 2, Pick 33)Marchand might quietly end up being one of the biggest steals in this class. At only 17 years old, the James Island High School product had an impressive high school career. He was the 5A baseball player of the year over the past two seasons, and helped his squad win the last three consecutive state championships. He hit .531 with 13 home runs on the year. Instead of signing with Ole Miss, he will head into the Rays organization.Gavin Giese (RHP, Round 3, Pick 85)If you’re betting on upside, Giese is an easy choice. The prep right-hander doesn’t have a ton of mileage on his arm, giving Tampa Bay plenty of room to shape his development. The Dana Hills High School pitcher has a unique profile, coming in at 6-3 and 190 lbs. According to MLB Pipeline, “In addition to a potential four-pitch mix, Giese fills up the zone with all of his offerings and has a real feel to pitch that belies his years. Add in the ease of operation coming down the mound and how clean his arm action is, and it’s obvious why cross-checkers were streaming in to see him this spring.”AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementCollin Bland (OF, Round 4, Pick 113)According to the MLB’s official website, Bland is the first unranked prospect to be taken by the Rays inside the 2026 MLB Draft. The Houston HS product has good size at 6-2, 240 lbs. And possess a large power upside at the plate. He could easily profile as an everyday corner outfielder if the offense continues to progress in the right direction.
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