NL Central teams' 2026 draft classes assessed
Analysts evaluated the National League Central clubs' selections in the 2026 MLB Draft, highlighting depth for the Cardinals, a mixed risk profile for the Reds, and promising arms for the Brewers.
The 2026 MLB Draft concluded with each National League Central club adding prospects primarily within the top ten rounds, where bonuses count against each team’s pool. Analysts noted that later-round picks often receive modest bonuses and rarely sign.
The Chicago Cubs focused on pitching, selecting Mississippi right-hander Cade Townsend in the first round. Townsend possesses a high-velocity fastball, cutter, splitter, slider and curveball, though his slender frame raises durability questions. The Cubs also added power-oriented outfielder Caden Sorrell and first baseman Myles Bailey, both of whom have notable offensive upside but face consistency challenges.
The Cincinnati Reds opened with shortstop Justin Lebron, a prospect with strong defensive tools and raw power but inconsistent contact against higher-level pitching. Subsequent picks, including shortstop Eric Becker and first baseman Mulivai Levu, provide a blend of defensive reliability and contact-oriented hitting, aiming to balance the initial high-risk selection.
Milwaukee selected high-school shortstop Trey Ebel in the first round, noting his solid contact skills and defensive instincts, with potential to develop power at the plate. Their second-round choice, outfielder Sawyer Strosnider, displays a high hard-hit rate but a pronounced platoon split that may limit his role. Additional selections add depth with pitchers such as Julian Garcia and Aidan Knaak, who show promising velocity and secondary offerings.
The St. Louis Cardinals leveraged extra picks to assemble a deep class. Their first-round pick, high-school outfielder Trevor Condon, offers strong contact and speed. The club also secured right-hander Tegan Kuhns, who combines a fastball reaching 98 mph with a plus curveball, and high-school shortstop Rocco Maniscalco, a power-hitting defender with developmental needs. Further rounds added versatile hitters and pitchers, including outfielder Andrew Williamson and right-hander Dawson Montesa, both projected to develop in the minor-league system.
Overall, the analysts refrained from assigning letter grades, instead commenting on individual selections and the balance of risk and potential across the Central division’s draft strategies.