The Philadelphia Phillies are preparing for the upcoming MLB Draft, where they hold the 26th overall pick. This position is not ideal, but it indicates the team’s recent success and postseason appearances. Historically, there have been more misses than hits with late first-round picks. The most notable player selected at this spot was Hall of Fame shortstop Alan Trammell in 1976.
The draft coverage will begin on Sunday, July 13, at 6 p.m. ET for Rounds 1-3 and continue on Monday, July 14, at 11:30 a.m. ET for Rounds 4-20.
Phillies assistant general manager Brian Barber explained that narrowing down potential selections is challenging due to uncertainties about which players will be available when their turn comes. “You just don’t know what’s going to happen in front of you,” Barber said.
This year marks Barber’s sixth draft with the Phillies. In previous drafts, he has selected players like Mick Abel (2020), Andrew Painter (2021), Justin Crawford (2022), Aidan Miller (2023), and Dante Nori (2024). Abel made his MLB debut in May, while Painter could follow after the All-Star break.
Barber noted that high school position players are likely to be a strength in this year’s draft class. He has consistently chosen high school players as his first pick over the past five years and may do so again this year. “In one aspect, you are what you do,” Barber stated regarding his selection history.
While some prospects could contribute to the Phillies’ future lineup, others might be involved in trades before the July 31 deadline. Among them, Painter is considered untouchable by the organization.
