Slot Value: $3,492,200
As I previously touched on with Marek Houston, Wake Forest continues to produce plenty of first-round talents year in and year out. They could have two this season, with the second coming in outfielder Ethan Conrad.
At the plate, Conrad has shown solid power, but hasn’t fully tapped into it this season. Despite this, he’s still excelling offensively, as he’s produced fantastic numbers. His improving plate discipline has allowed him to record an OBP of nearly .500, an impressive mark. Conrad’s swing is one of the best left-handed strokes in the draft, which should help him once he faces better pitching in professional baseball. He’s about average or slightly above-average in the field and on the bases, which have both shown room for potential improvement.
The Phillies have targeted offense early in their last few drafts, and they could add a very good college hitter in Ethan Conrad to this list come July.
Slot Value: $3,382,600
This pick will be made on the fact that the Guardians’ pitching factory can add some velocity to Appenzeller. Currently topping out at 94, and 6-foot-6 and just 180 pounds, there is certainly room to grow physically, and with the Guards track record of pitching development, this makes a ton of sense. As a lower-slot lefty with repeatable mechanics, Appenzeller is very deceptive and has the makings of a guy who has a huge ceiling.
Slot Value: $3,282,200
The other big need for the Kansas City Royals is an outfielder. You could even argue it is the team’s biggest need, as they are currently throwing an outfield out there that comprises Kyle Isbel, Hunter Renfroe, Jonathan India, Drew Waters, and Mark Canha. The bad news for the Royals is that there isn’t a guy waiting in the wings in the minor leagues either.
Mason Neville makes a lot of sense for this team. Neville’s improved plate discipline, big-time power, and athletic frame fit the mold of a power-speed outfielder. His breakout 2025 season, highlighted by a 20% walk rate and 114 mph max exit velocity, signals both polish and upside, exactly the type of bet a team like Kansas City could make to boost its outfield depth and offensive ceiling.
