The San Francisco Giants had a fascinating 2026 MLB Draft, and I'm here to give you the inside scoop on their picks from rounds 11 to 20. It's a journey through the intricacies of scouting and team strategy, with some intriguing prospects to boot.
A Full Slate and a Lucky Break
The Giants entered this draft with a full slate of picks, a welcome change after losing some due to the Qualifying Offer in previous years. They even gained an extra pick in the top 30 by trading Patrick Bailey, and lucked out with the No. 4 overall selection. This set the stage for an exciting draft strategy.
Round 11: A Comical Slugger
Charlie Bussey III, a first baseman from Francis Marion, is a statistical anomaly. His numbers in Division II are comical: a .489 batting average with 21 home runs and 40 stolen bases in 60 games. But scouting live mechanics is key, and it's hard to gauge the value of these stats. Bussey's performance in the Cape Cod League, a more competitive environment, was more modest. Still, he's an intriguing prospect, and his D2 National Player of the Year award shows that talent can be found outside the big-name schools.
Round 12: MLB Bloodlines
Josiah Kemp, a prep outfielder from Choctaw High School, brings MLB bloodlines to the table as the nephew of three-time All-Star Matt Kemp. Kemp is an athletic outfielder with good speed. His commitment to Oklahoma adds a layer of complexity, but if he can maintain his speed and agility while adding strength, he could become a valuable two-way player. The Giants need athletes, and Kemp fits the bill.
Round 13: A Curveball Specialist
Colin Fisher, a left-handed pitcher from Arkansas, had a rough junior year, but his curveball is a standout pitch. His command is impressive, but he'll need to develop a competitive fastball in the minors to succeed at the next level. Fisher's experience in the Cape Cod League adds to his resume, but his stock took a hit this year, likely costing him a few rounds in the draft.
Rounds 14-15: A Mix of Potential
The Giants focused on pitching in round 14 with Alex Solis, a right-hander from Houston. Solis's college stats are underwhelming, but that's not uncommon at this stage. His junior year showed improvement, and his experience in the Big 12 is valuable. The Giants may use him as a reliever in the minors.
Round 15 brought Drew Smith, a third baseman from Oregon, into the fold. Smith had a stellar year in the Big 10, but his advanced age and high strikeout rate likely pushed him down the draft. His power and defensive versatility make him an intriguing late-round pick.
Round 16: A Power Switch-Hitter
Dalton Wentz, a third baseman from Wake Forest, is a power-hitting switch-hitter who fell further than expected. He had a spectacular sophomore season, but his high strikeout rate and aggressive approach may have concerned scouts. Wentz's ability to play second base adds versatility, and his power is undeniable. The Giants will need to offer a competitive bonus to sign him, making this pick a bit of a gamble.
Rounds 17-18: Contact and Speed
Tanner Mally, an outfielder from Western Michigan, is a contact machine with an absurd .446 batting average and .554 on-base percentage. However, he lacks power, having never hit a home run in college. Mally's speed and defensive skills make him an intriguing prospect, and the Giants will likely develop him as a center fielder.
Ryder Brooks, a southpaw from UC Irvine, was selected in round 18. He improved his strikeout-to-walk ratio in the bullpen this year, and his smooth, repeatable motion is a strength. Brooks's fastball has room for growth, but his secondary pitches are promising.
Rounds 19-20: Power and Potential
Mikey Bell, a third baseman from Gonzaga, brings power and contact skills to the table. He improved his strikeout rate significantly and won the West Coast Conference Player of the Year award twice. Bell's power plays to all fields, and he has the potential to play in the outfield or at first base. His bonus demands may be higher due to a planned transfer to Georgia.
The Giants concluded their draft with JP Robertson, a right-handed pitcher from Mississippi. Robertson has serious power, touching triple digits on the radar gun. His command issues are a concern, but his compact delivery and impressive strikeout numbers make him an intriguing relief prospect.
This draft showcases the Giants' focus on a mix of power, contact, and defensive skills. While some picks carry more risk than others, the Giants have assembled an intriguing group of prospects. The challenge now is to develop these players and see who can make an impact at the major league level. Stay tuned as these young talents embark on their professional journeys!
