The countdown to the 2026 MLB Draft is on, and the buzz is already building with the release of early mock drafts. Baseball America has kicked things off with their initial predictions, and all eyes are on the Atlanta Braves, who hold two first-round picks at 9th and 26th overall.
In past drafts, the Braves have leaned heavily on pitching talent, but last year they switched gears, opting for position players like high school shortstop Tate Southisene and Florida State's Alex Lodise. This year, Baseball America suggests the Braves might continue to focus on position players with their top picks.
9th Overall Pick - AJ Gracia, OF, University of Virginia
Baseball America projects that the Braves will select AJ Gracia, a standout outfielder from the University of Virginia, with their 9th overall pick. Gracia, who transferred from Duke University, has been making waves with his impressive performance. During his time at Duke, he hit .299 with 29 homers and 112 RBIs over 120 games.
Since joining Virginia, Gracia has elevated his game even further. In just 16 games this season, he boasts a .362 average, a 1.243 OPS, six homers, and 12 RBIs. His plate discipline is particularly noteworthy, with more walks than strikeouts in his college career, a rare feat that highlights his mature approach at the plate.
Defensively, Gracia seems suited for a corner outfield spot. While his speed and arm strength might not be ideal for center or right field, his bat more than compensates. If he maintains his current form, Gracia could be off the board before the Braves get their chance, but if they snag him, it would be a stellar acquisition.
26th Overall Pick - Rocco Maniscalco, SS, Oxford High School (AL)
With their 26th pick, the Braves might look to the high school ranks, eyeing Rocco Maniscalco from Oxford High School in Alabama. Maniscalco first caught the attention of scouts in 2024, playing alongside Carter Johnson, a second-round pick by Miami.
At 6-foot-2 and a switch-hitter, Maniscalco offers a promising blend of skills. His solid tools across the board and potential for raw power make him an exciting prospect. Currently hitting .500 in seven games for Oxford, his performance underscores his potential.
Committed to Mississippi State, signing Maniscalco might require a substantial bonus, but for the Braves, investing in a young, high-upside talent like him could be well worth it. Landing both Gracia and Maniscalco would be a strategic move, setting the stage for a bright future in Atlanta.