Red Sox Draft Strategy Emphasizes Pitching Depth
The Boston Red Sox concentrated on strengthening their pitching roster during the second day of the MLB Draft, selecting 11 pitchers out of 16 total picks. This approach followed an initial focus on position players during the first day. The team utilized four consecutive college pitchers in rounds five through eight, a strategic move aimed at securing established talent.
Jake Bruml, the Red Sox director of amateur scouting, oversaw his first draft in this role after serving as an assistant in the draft room for six years. Bruml noted the importance of targeting college players in the middle rounds, stating that the best available college players often go in rounds five, six, and seven. The team’s strategy also involved identifying strike-throwing pitchers who possess the potential to develop into starters.
The Red Sox had additional funds available in their bonus pool, which allowed them to pursue high-upside high school prospects. These funds became available after the first-round selection of North Carolina shortstop Jake Schaffner, who is expected to sign for a bonus below the recommended MLB slot value.
Key Pitching and High School Selections
Among the pitching selections was Lucas Davenport, a 6-foot-6-inch, 230-pound right-hander from Baylor, chosen in the fifth round. Davenport is known for his delivery extension and a fastball that reaches 94-96 miles per hour. He expressed enthusiasm for joining the Red Sox, citing the organization’s development aspect as a key factor.
The sixth-round pick was Brett Lanman from Abilene Christian, a 6-5, 228-pound right-hander who consistently started throughout his three collegiate seasons. His coach, Rick McCarty, described Lanman as a durable strike-thrower whose fastball can reach the mid-90s without maximum effort. McCarty drew parallels between Lanman’s physical stature and that of Payton Tolle, a successful left-handed pitcher in the Red Sox’ development system.
With remaining bonus pool money, the Red Sox selected two high school players: outfielder Martin Shelar from Georgia in the ninth round and right-hander Kaleb LaFavor from Iowa in the tenth round. Shelar, a power-hitting outfielder with above-average speed, was ranked by scouting services between No. 100 and No. 175. He hit 19 home runs in 33 games, the highest among high schoolers, and showcased his power with a 470-foot home run during the MLB Combine’s on-field workouts. His high school coach, Mike Strickland, highlighted Shelar’s work ethic as his primary tool.
Kaleb LaFavor, a 6-6, 180-pound right-hander from Bishop Heelan High School, has already demonstrated a fastball velocity of 95 mph. Bruml projected LaFavor’s potential, comparing him to Brewers All-Star Jacob Misiorowski, noting his projectable frame and release rates. Bruml anticipates significant velocity gains as LaFavor progresses through the Red Sox’ development system. The Red Sox expect to sign all of their first 10 selections, pending physical examinations.
Looking Ahead for the Red Sox Prospects
The Boston Red Sox have completed their 2026 MLB Draft class, which now consists of 20 rounds, a change from the previous 40-round format. While these drafted players will initially develop in the minor leagues, their selection marks a significant step in their professional careers. The draft class includes a variety of talents, with an initial focus on players from the University of North Carolina.
The organization’s strategy in this draft appears to be a blend of securing college arms ready for development and investing in high-upside high school talents. This approach aims to build a strong foundation for the team’s future. Director of amateur scouting Jake Bruml expects all of the first ten selections to sign with the team.
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Source: bostonglobe.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.