Phillies projected to take Louisville OF in early 2026 mock draft

Jared Bloom

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Phillies projected to take Louisville OF in early 2026 mock draft image

Earlier this week, teams learned where they would be drafting in the upcoming 2026 MLB Draft. The Chicago White Sox have the honors of picking first, with the Tampa Bay Rays and Minnesota Twins following. 

Some teams, like the New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, and Los Angeles Dodgers, won't have a traditional first-round pick. Instead, they have received some penalties for being above the Competitive Balance Act. 

The Yankees will get their first pick after 35 other teams make their picks. The Phillies will get the 37th pick, while the Dodgers will make their first pick after 40 other clubs make a pick. 

Phillies projected to take Louisville OF in early 2026 mock draft

While the Phillies have such a late pick, there will be tons of great talent to choose from. The question is, will Philadelphia go all out for a high schooler or a college player?

Over the last few years, the Phillies have taken high school talent, but that could all change with the upcoming draft. Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter recently came out with his early 2026 mock and believes Louisville's Zion Rose could be a great fit. 

Scouts were a fan of this player in high school, but he was a catcher in high school. After going undrafted, he went to the University of Louisville, and they made him a full-time outfielder. 

He is just one of a handful of college players who hit 30 or more extra base hits while stealing as many bases in 2025. To put it lightly, he is a threat when he makes contact. 

He is faster than most people his size (6'1", 210 pounds) and has a great arm in left field. 

Scouts have loved his work ethic as a high schooler and believe he is one player who will make the most out of his talents.

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Editorial Team