The 2026 Major League Baseball Draft will unfold over two days in mid‑July, with the first round kicking off on July 11 and the remaining selections following on July 12. In total, teams will make 135 selections on the opening day, after which the draft will continue through 20 rounds. The order of picks is primarily set by the previous season’s standings, while extra selections are granted for achievements such as player promotions and market considerations.
Draft dates and structure
The draft order reflects the teams’ performances in the prior season, with the worst records picking first, but additional picks are awarded for factors like player promotion and market size, ensuring a competitive balance.
Live broadcast of the opening round
NBC and its streaming service Peacock will air the first ten selections live, giving viewers real‑time access to the league’s next generation of stars. The broadcast partnership highlights the draft’s growing visibility and the league’s strategy to engage a younger audience.
Among the most anticipated talents are five players who have already generated considerable buzz.
Prospects to watch
Grady Emerson, an 18‑year‑old shortstop from Fort Worth Christian School, combines elite speed with a polished hitting approach, drawing comparisons to early‑career Corey Seager. Roch Cholowsky, a 21‑year‑old shortstop from UCLA, is celebrated for his advanced plate discipline and defensive versatility.
Jackson Flora, a right‑handed pitcher from UC Santa Barbara, has emerged as a frontline arm after posting a sub‑2.50 ERA and regularly hitting the mid‑90s with his fastball. Meanwhile, Jacob Lombard, an 18‑year‑old shortstop from Florida’s Gulliver Prep, brings power to the plate, having hit 15 home runs as a senior.
The depth and talent of this year’s class signal a shifting landscape in player development, as college standouts increasingly opt for the draft over alternative pathways. With the first round set to be televised, the 2026 MLB Draft promises to be a pivotal moment for teams shaping their future rosters.