The 2026 Major League Baseball draft has already begun to generate buzz as teams lock in their picks, and among the early selections is a standout from Oxford High School.
Rocco Maniscalo, a 17‑year‑old infielder who honed his craft in Oxford, Alabama, was taken in the second round by the St. Louis Cardinals, a move that reflects the Cardinals’ confidence in his defensive versatility and bat speed.
Alabama's Draft Impact
Justin Lebron, a shortstop who starred for his high school in Alabama, heard his name called in the first round by the Cincinnati Reds, a testament to his combination of power hitting and poise under pressure.
Chris Rembert, a pitcher from Auburn, was selected 51st overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates, a slot that could see him develop into a future bullpen mainstay.
The three selections underscore a broader trend: Alabama’s high schools and colleges are producing talent that attracts the attention of scouts across the league, a shift that could reshape the state’s baseball reputation.
As the draft unfolds, the next steps for these young athletes will involve signing contracts, attending rookie camps, and ultimately proving that the promise shown on draft day can translate into performance on the field.