2023 Mock MLB Draft Final: The Pirates control the cards
Dylan Crews. 3. player. 63. . OF. Detroit Tigers
Nationally and locally, speculation is mounting that the Tigers are eyeing a college bat for their next draft. The last time Detroit had the third pick, they opted for Jackson Jobe. However, this time around, the onus is on Team President Scott Harris to make the right choice.
The Tigers’ farm system currently lacks hitters with the potential akin to that of Crews. He aligns with Harris’ philosophy of controlling the strike zone. In Comerica Park’s expansive centerfield, Crews can cover substantial ground with his speed and has shown consistent improvement in each of his seasons at LSU.
What’s notable is his 70 grade power tool, as rated by MLB Pipeline. This positions him as a “can’t miss” draft player. Picking Crews would deliver an immediate upgrade to the Tigers’ farm system. I still stick that Crews will end up in a Tigers’ uniform. Detroit can shell out a few more bucks as they have the second-largest bonus pool next to the Pirates.
player. 90. . RHP. Washington Nationals. Paul Skenes. 2
Suggestions have been made that the Pirates may pick Paul Skenes first, but most mock drafts predict the Nationals will select him at number two. MLB Pipeline has indicated that Skenes is among the top draft prospects, a sentiment echoed by Stephen Strasburg. This analysis could prove correct, as Skenes potentially could reach the nation’s capital by 2024.
Skenes boasts a 70 grade slider, which, in combination with his fastball and developing changeup, gives him a formidable arsenal.
Pittsburgh Pirates. Max Clark. 1. player. 4. . OF
Any athlete wants that honor of being the first pick, and prep outfielder Max Clark is no different. In his latest mock draft for Perfect Game, Brian Sakowski said this about Clark to Pittsburgh:
"To sum this up succinctly, I’ve heard enough buzz about this to project it as a real possibility. I don’t know for sure what Pittsburgh will do, but I’ve heard that Clark, LSU outfielder Dylan Crews and Florida outfielder Wyatt Langford are the three main names here, with the latest intel saying one of Clark/Langford to be more likely than Crews."
As the saying goes, “where there’s smoke, there’s fire.”
Clark boasts four-plus tools, including a developing power tool at just 18. He’s a 70 grade runner, and given his immense potential, he could be a natural fit in the strong Pirates system.
The MLB draft this season will be one of the most unpredictable we have seen in quite some time, which adds some drama to the pick.
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