Central STL News

For the first time in 26 years, the St. Louis Cardinals are preparing to make a top-five pick in the MLB Draft. This opportunity comes after selecting JJ Wetherholt at No. 7 last year. Assistant GM and director of scouting Randy Flores expressed excitement about this rare chance to choose from among the top prospects.

Flores stated, “I think me and all of Cardinals Nation are hoping for [not picking in the top five again], but we just want to take advantage of the opportunities ahead of us.” The team aims to capitalize on this draft position to return to their winning ways.

The Cardinals will select fifth, following the Nationals, Angels, Mariners, and Rockies. The Nationals recently dismissed GM Mike Rizzo and manager Davey Martinez, adding intrigue to their draft process. They might consider Ethan Holliday, son of Cardinals Hall of Famer Matt Holliday.

With their 12th single-digit pick in history, the Cardinals could choose between highly ranked college pitchers or high school shortstops. Options include LSU’s Kade Anderson, Florida State’s Jamie Arnold, Tennessee’s Liam Doyle, or high school shortstops Eli Willits and Billy Carlson.

Flores discussed balancing risk and reward: “The balance is that the risk and reward has to be seen in some ways... So, we try to stay disciplined to our board.” John Mozeliak, president of baseball operations, added: “There's no perfect answer [as to picking a high school prospect or a college player].”

Even if they don’t select a high school player first, they may do so with later picks. Corona High School in California could have four players chosen on day one. Flores noted a significant scouting presence there: “There was ‘a well-worn path to Corona High School this spring.’”

Flores emphasized understanding player readiness: “I do think that getting to know the player and their pro readiness is of utmost importance.”