The Baltimore Orioles entered the 2026 First-Year Player Draft with a clear strategy: add athletic outfield talent and bolster a pitching rotation that has shown flashes of promise. The club ultimately selected four players whose skill sets align with the organization’s long‑term vision.
The Picks
Each of the four draftees brings a distinct profile, from elite bat speed to high‑spin pitching, and the organization will now work to bring them into the fold.
Eric Booth Jr.: A Bat‑Speed Phenom
Eric Booth Jr., taken seventh overall out of Oak Grove High School in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, impressed scouts with a .481 average in his senior season and a victory in the National Home Run Derby in San Diego. His combination of contact hitting and above‑average sprint speed makes him a potential catalyst for the club’s rebuilding timeline.
Ty Head: Power and Speed Combo
Ty Head, the 46th overall selection from North Carolina State, posted 14 home runs and 26 stolen bases during his college career. The right‑handed outfielder is praised for his raw power and quick first step, traits that the Orioles hope will translate quickly to professional play.
Dominic Voegele: Pitching Depth
Dominic Voegele, a left‑handed pitcher from the University of Kansas, was chosen 82nd overall after posting a 5.85 ERA and striking out 120 batters. While his ERA suggests room for refinement, his strikeout rate and command improvements have generated optimism about his upside as a future back‑of‑the‑rotation arm.
Kevin Roberts Jr.: A Two‑Way Standout
Kevin Roberts Jr., selected 110th overall from Jackson Prep School in Flowood, Mississippi, brings a rare two‑way skill set. He batted .396 as a high school hitter while also delivering a 3.05 ERA on the mound, indicating a rare blend of hitting and pitching talent that could develop into a versatile asset.
All four players must sign their entry‑level agreements before they can officially join the Orioles’ minor‑league system, a step that will determine how quickly they can begin shaping the club’s future.