Twins eye top prospects in early rounds
The Minnesota Twins hold the third overall pick in the upcoming 2026 MLB Draft, a position that could prove pivotal for the franchise. The team’s initial five selections include the third overall pick in Round 1, 43rd overall in Round 2, 74th overall in Competitive Balance Round B, 79th overall in Round 3, and 107th overall in Round 4.
One player frequently linked with the Twins’ first-round selection is Vahn Lackey, a catcher from Georgia Tech. Lackey has shown significant improvement, particularly in his offensive game, during the 2026 season. He concluded the 2026 season with a batting line of .397/.519/.772, accumulating 39 extra-base hits. His power numbers also saw a notable increase, hitting 20 home runs in 61 games in 2026, compared to six home runs in 60 games in 2025. Additionally, Lackey demonstrated strong plate discipline with more walks than strikeouts, and recorded 15 stolen bases.
Defensively, Lackey is recognized for his athleticism and skills behind the plate. He exhibits good receiving and blocking, an effective arm, and quick pop and transfer times, suggesting he has the potential to be a plus defensive catcher.
Another top prospect, Roch Cholowsky, is considered a consensus top prospect in this year’s class. He is a strong defensive shortstop with a good arm and solid instincts. Cholowsky’s offensive profile includes plus power and an average to slightly above-average hit tool. He hit .353/.480/.710 during his sophomore year, with a high hard-hit rate and a low strikeout rate. While Lackey’s appeal lies in his ability to remain a catcher, Cholowsky offers significant power upside.
Potential selections in later rounds
In the second round, the Twins could consider Aiden Ruiz, a switch-hitting shortstop from The Stony Brook HS (NY). Ruiz is noted for his exceptional defensive skills, featuring a quick first step, soft hands, and a strong arm, allowing him to make plays across the infield. Offensively, Ruiz employs a contact-oriented approach from both sides of the plate, displaying strong bat-to-ball skills. While his power projection is limited, he is an above-average runner and could be a threat on the basepaths.
For Competitive Balance Round B, Brett Renfrow, a right-handed pitcher from Virginia Tech, might be an option. Renfrow, who transitioned from a two-way player to focusing solely on pitching, has shown consistent improvement. He has surpassed 70 innings for three consecutive seasons and has steadily increased his strikeout rate while reducing his walk rate. His fastball typically sits at 94 mph, reaching up to 97 mph, and he also features a slider/cutter hybrid, a curveball, and a changeup with good horizontal movement. In 73.2 innings in 2026, Renfrow recorded a 4.67 FIP, striking out 27.7% of hitters and walking 7.9%.
The third round could see the Twins target Beau Peterson, a third baseman from Mill Valley HS (KS). Peterson possesses a physically imposing frame and a left-handed swing with good bat speed and raw power. He projects to be a 25-home run threat as a professional hitter once he consistently adds loft to his swing. Peterson also demonstrates good bat-to-ball skills and strike zone control. Despite potentially being an average runner, his defensive skills at third base are considered strong, and he has shown arm strength, reaching 95 mph on the mound.
Other notable prospects in the draft class include Tyler Bell, a draft-eligible sophomore shortstop who was a strong hitter in the SEC, and Grady Emerson, a leading high school position player known for his contact skills and instincts at shortstop. Jackson Flora is highlighted as a top pitching prospect in the class, with a fastball that sits 94-98 mph and effective secondary pitches.
The 2026 MLB Draft is scheduled to begin on July 11.
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Source: twinsdaily.com
