The 2026 MLB Draft is in the books, and the question on everyone's mind is: Who will be the first to reach the big leagues? With the 2025 class yet to make their mark, the 2024 draft class is already making waves. The MLB Pipeline Podcast's Jim Callis and Jonathan Mayo offer their insights on four draftees who could be the fastest to the Majors.
Cole Carlon, LHP, Blue Jays
Cole Carlon, a 6-foot-5 left-hander from Arizona, is a force to be reckoned with. His double-plus slider and workhorse frame make him a top prospect. Mayo predicts Carlon will be developed as a starter, and the Blue Jays, who were close to winning the World Series last year, will be eager to give him a chance. With a 70-grade slider, Carlon could be in Double-A by the second half of the year, and his slider alone will be enough to get big league hitters out of the bullpen.
Jackson Flora, RHP, Giants
Jackson Flora, a 6-foot-5 right-hander from UC Santa Barbara, is the latest potential ace. His impressive control and fastball that touches triple digits make him a top pitching prospect. Callis highlights Flora's complete package, including a slider and a kick-change that missed bats. The Giants, in need of pitching, will be eager to give Flora a chance.
Roch Cholowsky, SS, White Sox
Roch Cholowsky, the top college shortstop prospect in over two decades, is a right-handed hitter with a keen eye at the plate. Mayo suggests Cholowsky could make an appearance in the Arizona Fall League, putting him on a path to start the year in Double-A. He predicts Cholowsky could be up by June and might even make it to Chicago ahead of the All-Star break.
Drew Burress, OF, Athletics
Drew Burress, a 5-foot-9 center fielder from Georgia Tech, burst onto the scene with impressive power and a disciplined approach. Callis acknowledges Burress' small stature and right-handed hitting, but highlights his solid-to-plus tools. The Athletics, who have a history of moving prospects quickly, might not be afraid to bring Burress to the big leagues quickly if his bat proves ready.
Randall, RHP, Cardinals
Randall, a right-hander from UCLA, found success as a reliever with a dominant fastball and a slider-cutter hybrid. Mayo points out Randall's all-fastball approach and his potential to dominate in Double-A. The Cardinals, in need of pitching, could see Randall impacting their bullpen next year.
Grady Emerson, SS, Rays
Grady Emerson, the first prep player taken in 2026, is a Texas native with a 65-grade hit tool and virtually no flaws in his game. Callis believes that elite-talent high school players can move quickly, and Emerson, with his advanced hitting and defensive skills, could be a superstar. While he might not reach the big leagues as early as 2027, the Rays will be eager to bring him along at their own timetable.
Jarren Advincula, 2B, Angels
Jarren Advincula, an advanced college bat from California, won the Cape Cod League batting title and hit .434 as a junior at Georgia Tech. Mayo praises Advincula's incredible approach at the plate and his ability to hit with wood. The Angels, known for moving prospects quickly, will be eager to give Advincula a chance.
Taylor Rabe, RHP, Royals
Taylor Rabe, a 6-foot-5 right-hander from South Carolina, is an athletic prospect with one of the best fastballs in his class and impressive control. Callis highlights Rabe's combination of stuff and strikes, making him a perfect fit for the Royals, who need pitching. With a fastball up to 100 mph and a slider and cutter that came on late in the year, Rabe is ready for a chance in the big leagues.
