MLB Draft
Genei Sato plans U.S. transfer for 2027 MLB draft
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Right-hander Genei Sato, a third-year student at Sendai University in Japan, intends to transfer to a U.S. college in February 2026 to become eligible for the 2027 MLB Draft. The 21-year-old pitcher, seen as a potential first-round pick in Japan's 2026 NPB Draft, will play summer ball in the U.S. beforehand. This move follows a growing trend among Japanese amateurs seeking paths to Major League Baseball through NCAA programs.
St. Louis Cardinals top prospect JJ Wetherholt is concentrating on his strengths this winter ahead of Spring Training, aiming to secure a spot on the major league roster. The 23-year-old infielder, MLB's No. 5 overall prospect, emphasized maintaining his natural swing despite early coaching on weaknesses. Teammates and coaches praise his potential to energize the lineup.
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With five years of hindsight, Baseball America has redrafted the 2021 MLB Draft, placing San Diego Padres outfielder Jackson Merrill at the top. The exercise highlights how the class has developed, with Merrill and fellow Padres draftee James Wood occupying the first two spots. The original draft lacked consensus, leading to significant deviations in this retrospective.
The Washington Nationals have hired Desmond McGowan from the New York Mets to serve as director of amateur acquisitions, bolstering their scouting efforts amid a front office overhaul. McGowan, who previously managed data science for the Mets with a focus on the draft, brings an analytics-driven approach to the role. This move aligns with the team's ongoing rebuild, emphasizing strong drafting to build their farm system.
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The Colorado Rockies feature two promising infield prospects in Bleacher Report's top 100 list for 2025-26. Shortstop Ethan Holliday ranks at No. 16, while first baseman Charlie Condon comes in at No. 68. Both players show strong potential in the minors amid the team's recent challenges.