✍ 2026 MLB draft Day 1 winners and losers
The first 135 picks are in the books. Who knocked it out of the park?
The 2026 MLB draft is off to a thrilling start, with 135 talented young players finding new homes. As teams look to build their future rosters, some organizations made savvy picks that could pay dividends for years to come. The Los Angeles Dodgers, for example, snagged highly touted high school phenom, Jack Harris, with their first-round pick. Harris, a dominant pitcher with a 100+ mph fastball, has the potential to be a game-changer in the Dodgers' rotation.
On the other hand, some teams struggled to find their footing on Day 1. The Chicago White Sox, who had a high draft pick, took a college hitter who some scouts felt was overdrafted. This pick could come back to haunt them if the player doesn't pan out as expected. Meanwhile, the Houston Astros made a bold move, trading up to grab a coveted international prospect, Luis Rodriguez. This move signals the Astros' commitment to building a strong farm system and competing for years to come.
As the draft continues, all eyes will be on the top prospects still available and which teams will take a chance on them. With Day 2 looming, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how the remaining picks play out. Will teams focus on college players or take a chance on high school talent? Stay tuned to see which teams emerge as winners on Day 2 of the 2026 MLB draft.
Originally reported by espn.com. SportsNewsNow adds analysis for sports & fitness readers.