Earlier in the week, the Athletics had the fifth-highest odds to take home the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming 2026 MLB Draft. They had a 6.55% while the Chicago White Sox, who had the highest odds, were listed at 27.73%.
The top pick would end up going to the Sox, and the A's dropped down a bit in the order. They will have the eighth overall pick in the upcoming draft.
While it is a bit disappointing to slide down the board, there will be some great talent available when they are on the clock. The question is, do they go after a hitter or bring in a pitcher?
Athletics projected to take Coastal Carolina RHP in early 2026 mock draft
During the last draft, the A's had the 11th overall pick. Here, they selected Florida State pitcher Jamie Arnold. The previous year, the club drafted Nick Kurtz, and you can already see the damage he has caused around the league.
According to Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter, he believes the A's will have a similar strategy as they did last draft, taking Coastal Carolina pitcher Cameron Flukey.
"... And now enters the spring as one of the nation's top returning starters. With a big 6'6", 210-pound frame, polished four-pitch repertoire and some remaining projection, he has the potential to climb into the top five picks."
As Reuter mentioned, Flukey is one of the nation's top returning starters, and could certainly climb the draft board if he continues to dominate as he has.
Do not be surprised if that is exactly what happens. Flukey is one of the most polished college pitchers right now, and it won't take much for him to bring what he is doing in the college ranks to the big leagues.
More MLB news:
- Orioles projected to take LSU outfielder in early 2026 mock draft
- Giants projected to take Georgia Tech outfielder in early 2026 mock draft
- Athletics grab three RHPs in minor league phase of Rule 5 Draft
- Astros add a bat and arm during minor league phase of Rule 5 Draft
- Tigers add multiple RHPs in minor league phase of Rule 5 Draft