2020 NBA Mock Draft: Second Edition

 Here is my second edition of my 2020 NBA Mock Draft.

1. Minnesota Timberwolves- Anthony Edwards, Shooting Guard, Georgia: The Timberwolves are a team that has some options with this selection, but I feel that Edwards is the best fit here. Edwards is someone that has upside as a scorer and he can shoot the ball well. He fills a position of need and he and D'Angelo Russell would be an interesting backcourt.

2. Golden State Warriors- Onyeka Okongwu, Power Forward/Center, USC: The Warriors are a team that is more likely to trade this pick for the next star player that becomes available rather than draft a rookie as they look to go back into championship contention. Okongwu had a great Freshman season as he shown versatility and could be a double-double guy.

3. Charlotte Hornets- James Weisman, Center, USA: Weisman is somebody that had a super short college season at Memphis which led to a suspension and ultimately sat out to prepare for the draft. He is someone that fits what the Hornets need- an above average big man that can protect the rim and fit into todays game as a small ball five.

4. Chicago Bulls- LaMelo Ball, Point Guard, USA: The Bulls have options with this pick, but here I have them snagging their possible point guard of the future was high upside in Ball. His play making skills are great, but he is not a great shooter. A selection of Ball here would open up some interesting decisions for the Bulls including whether to trade Zach LaVine or not.

5. Cleveland Cavaliers- Deni Avdija, Small Forward, Israel: The Cavaliers are a team that needs more young building blocks with upside and here they snag one with Avdija. He's tall enough to play at the four, but skilled enough to play the three. Avdija would be a nice fit here with the Cavaliers and could complement their young back court well.

6. Atlanta Hawks- Obi Toppin, Power Forward, Dayton: Toppin had a breakout year in college this past season and he has a chance to go higher than this. The fit up front with John Collins would be interesting and the Hawks need shooters to compliment Trae Young as well and thats what also makes this selection intriguing due to Toppin's elite shooting ability.

7. Detroit Pistons- Tyrese Haliburton, Point Guard, Iowa State: The Pistons have arguably the worst roster in the entire NBA after getting rid of Andre Drummond and lack star power as well. Haliburton's season was short due to an injury, but improved tremendously as a player with his passing and scoring abilities. Haliburton is the type of player the Pistons need for the reasons I mentioned.

8. New York Knicks- Killian Hayes, Point Guard, France: The Knicks are arguably the biggest losers of the draft lottery from dropping to eight from six. Here I have them selecting Hayes, who many people like due to his explosiveness and good ball handling. The issue is that he cannot shoot, but if his shooting improves, the Knicks can get themselves a quality player.

9. Washington Wizards- Devin Vassell, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Florida State: Vassell is someone that could end up going here or outside of the lottery. He is your classic three-and-D player that fits in to todays NBA and shoots very well from beyond the arc. Vassell is also very versatile so he would fit here whether its with Bradley Beal or without him.

10. Phoenix Suns- Isaac Okoro, Small Forward, Auburn: The Suns had a phenomenal bubble going 8-0, although they didn't make the play-in for that last playoff spot. Now, they look to add to whats already a promising roster. Okoro would fit here with the Suns due to his three-and-D ability and that opens up a door for a possible Kelly Oubre trade or maybe they trade this pick.

11. San Antonio Spurs- Cole Anthony, Point Guard, North Carolina: I am much higher on Anthony then most people, mainly due to the fact he was playing at a high level in college before his knee injury that forced him to have surgery. He could have possibly gone first overall had not been for that knee injury and he'll be a steal for whomever drafts him, especially past the top five.

12. Sacramento Kings- Aaron Nesmith, Shooting Guard/Small Forward, Vanderbilt: This would be a solid pick for the Kings, who have a player in Buddy Hield who wants out of town and could look to replace him. Although a small sample size before a foot injury, he shot incredibly well in the midst of what looked to be a breakout season, especially from three point land.

13. New Orleans Pelicans- Precious Achiuwa, Power Forward, Memphis: The Pelicans are a team that has some options with this pick, including the possibility of trading this pick to get a piece to go with Zion Williamson. Achiuwa is someone that averaged a double-double in college after James Weismann left school. He's not a great shooter, but is effective around the rim and in transition.

14. Boston Celtics (from Memphis Grizzlies)- Zeke Nnaji, Center, Arizona: This is another pick I can possibly see being moved as the Celtics are a win now team. Nnaji is someone that is a small ball five that fits perfect for today's league although he lacks instincts around the rim. Ironically, he'd be a perfect fit with the current Celtics team.

15. Orlando Magic- Saddiq Bey, Small Forward, Villanova: The Magic are going to be an interesting team this offseason that could wind up taking a step back due to the unfortunate ACL injury to Jonathan Isaac. Bey is someone that is versatile both offensively and defensively and that just fits the perfect player for today's NBA. He, Nikola Vusevic, Isaac, and Markelle Fultz would be a nice core.

16. Portland Trail Blazers- Tyrese Maxey, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: The Blazers are a very interesting team going forward. Maxey is someone that did not live up to expectations as a freshman for John Calipari's team, although he showed flashes with his creativity in the paint and is a better shooter than perceived.

17. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Brooklyn Nets)- Isaiah Stewart, Center, Washington: The Timberwolves go with Stewart here as he's someone that could start as a back off big off the bench or play alongside Towns or if they trade Towns, Stewart can start for them. Stewart is someone that some people have doubts about due to spacing issues but did bring solid production to the table for a lousy Washington Huskies team last season.

18. Dallas Mavericks- Theo Maledon, Point Guard, France: Maledon showed some potential for a young age, but was mostly underwhelming due to injury issues. This could very well be a draft-and-stash prospect for the Mavericks, who still have Jalen Brunson on their team as well as Seth Curry and have good success with international players.

19. Brooklyn Nets (from Philadelphia 76ers)- RJ Hampton, Shooting Guard, New Zealand: This could be a steal for the Nets as Hampton was more highly regarded before the basketball season started. Hampton is someone that is versatile and is a solid shooter and could be a contributor to a new look Nets team next season with Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving back and healthy.

20. Miami Heat- Kira Lewis Jr, Point Guard, Alabama: Lewis is someone that came in to college with expectations, but returned to school last year and performed better then he did as a Freshman. He's a solid perimeter shooter and could be a steal at this point in the draft.

21. Philadelphia 76ers- Patrick Williams, Small Forward, Florida State: The 76ers land themselves a steal player here with Williams, who was thought to go in the lottery a few months ago. He is someone that is versatile and could defend multiple positions, but his offensive game is a work in progress.

22. Denver Nuggets (from Houston Rockets)- Jaden McDaniels, Small Forward/Power Forward, Washington: McDaniels was super disappointing in college a year ago on what was the most disappointing team in the sport as he lead the Pac-12 in fouls per game. The one thing that could get McDaniels picked in the first round is upside.

23. Utah Jazz- Jahmi'us Ramsey, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: Ramsey is someone that was solid as a Freshman for Chris Beard's squad. He's someone that screams high energy guy off the bench for a contender. Those reasons are why this would be a great pick for the Jazz, who fit that bill.

24. Milwaukee Bucks (from Indiana Pacers)- Jalen Smith, Power Forward/Center, Maryland: Smith is another player who improved as a Sophomore and showed some versatility along the way. The Bucks can use a back up stretch big to come off the bench with Irsa Ilyasova and Robin Lopez aging.

25. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Denver Nuggets)- Jordan Nwora, Small Forward, Louisville: The Thunder land themselves a nice player at a position of need in Nwora. He can shoot and space the floor, but his playmaking and ball handling need to be worked on.

26. Boston Celtics- Xavier Tillman, Power Forward, Michigan State: The Celtics have a lot of bigs now, although they don't have one that jumps right out at you. Tillman is someone that was one of the better bigs in the country with his strength and size, although not a great perimeter shooter despite averaging a double-double.

27. New York Knicks (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Josh Green, Shooting Guard, Arizona: Green is someone that is a great defensive player and has shown flashes of good scoring, but is not a great play maker or passer. The Knicks are taking a risk here with this pick and if he improves his offensive game, they have themselves a player.

28. Los Angeles Lakers- Nico Mannion, Point Guard, Arizona: The Lakers are certainly a candidate to trade this pick as they lack picks due to the Anthony Davis trade. Mannion is not someone that has great athleticism or can shoot well, but he has other qualities that could make him a solid player in the league.

29. Toronto Raptors- Cassius Winston, Point Guard, Michigan State: This would be a steal for the Lakers, who grab someone who many thought would be a lottery pick before the college basketball season. Personal issues really were a distraction for Winston, who isn't a great athlete but is smart and is a solid shooter.

30. Boston Celtics (from Milwaukee Bucks)- Cassius Stanley, Shooting Guard, Duke: Stanley is someone else that could be a steal in the late first round or early second round. He is someone that is a solid shooter from three and is great in the transition game.

2020 MLB National TV Schedule

Here is the National TV Schedule for the 2020 MLB Season.

7/23- Yankees vs Nationals; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
7/23- Giants vs Dodgers; 10:00, ESPN:
7/24- Braves vs Mets; 4:00, ESPN:
7/24- Brewers vs Cubs; 7:00, ESPN:
7/24- Angels vs Athletics; 10:00, ESPN:
7/25- Brewers vs Cubs; 1:00, FOX
7/25- Giants vs Dodgers; 4:00, FOX
7/25- Yankees vs Nationals; 7:00, FOX
7/26- Yankees vs Nationals; 1:00, TBS
7/26- Braves vs Mets; 7:00, ESPN
7/26- Giants vs Dodgers; 10:00, ESPN

2020 MLB Awards Predictions

Here are my award predictions for the 2020 MLB Season.

American League
MVP: Matt Chapman, Oakland Athletics: Chapman is widely known for his outstanding defense at third base, but he has become a prolific offensive player as well. I think he's in for a big season on a team that I view as a contender in the A's.
Runner up: Francisco Lindor, Cleveland Indians

Cy Young: Shane Bieber, Cleveland Indians: Instead of going chalk with Gerrit Cole, I went with someone who had a breakout 2019 in Bieber. The short season will benefit the Indians and that staff and Bieber is certainly capable of leading the American League in ERA this season.
Runner up: Gerrit Cole, New York Yankees

Rookie of the Year: Luis Robert, Chicago White Sox: Robert is someone that I believe that can become a flat out stud this season. He has shown so much of what he can do both with the bat and glove. Also, I believe the White Sox are a playoff team now and for years to come.
Runner up: Jesus Luzardo, Oakland Athletics

Manager of the Year: Rick Renteria, Chicago White Sox: Renteria is someone who is under some pressure this season for his team to succeed. I believe they will have success and he will rightfully get credit for it.
Runner up: Kevin Cash, Tampa Bay Rays

National League
MVP: Juan Soto, Washington Nationals: Despite news breaking that Soto will miss time with Covid-19, I believe Soto could come back soon and pick off where he left off last season. He is a flat out stud and he will carry the Nationals to the postseason.
Runner up: Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers

Cy Young: Mike Soroka, Atlanta Braves: Soroka was outstanding as a rookie a year and would have won Rookie of the Year had not been for Pete Alonso's historic rookie season. I believe he steps up his game more and comes away with this prestigious award.
Runner up: Luis Castillo, Cincinnati Reds

Rookie of the Year: Gavin Lux, Los Angeles Dodgers: Despite not starting the season with the big league club, I believe he will come up and show what he is capable of. He will certainly be better than what he showed last fall.
Runner up: Carter Kieboom, Washington Nationals

Manager of the Year: David Bell, Cincinnati Reds: With all the improvements the team made in the second half of last season and in the offseason, there's pressure on Bell to deliver. I believe he will get the job done and will get this award.
Runner up: Luis Rojas, New York Mets

2020 MLB Season Predictions

This is going to be a season like non other as we are entering a 60-game regular season, plus postseason, due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, but hey, it's still baseball! And with hours away from the start of the MLB Season, the league announced that they would be expanding the playoffs to 16 teams (8 per league)! Can the Washington Nationals possibly repeat as World Series Champions? Will this be a Yankees vs Dodgers like most people expect or a surprise representative representing each league? Without further ado, here are my predictions for the 2020 MLB Season!

AL East
1. New York Yankees- 40-20
2. Tampa Bay Rays- 38-22
3. Boston Red Sox- 28-32
4. Toronto Blue Jays- 26-34
5. Baltimore Orioles- 20-40

The New York Yankees are unquestionably the favorites to take home the American League East crown for the second straight season. They made the sexiest move of the winter signing Gerrit Cole away from the Houston Astros as he leads their rotation with James Paxton, Masahiro Tanaka, JA Happ, and Jordan Montgomery behind him. Their offense is loaded with big names led by Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, Gleyber Torres, DJ LeMahieu, and Gary Sanchez. Their bullpen remains the best in the game led by closer Aroldis Chapman, Zack Britton, Tommy Kahnle, and Adam Ottavino. The Tampa Bay Rays are a team many people expect to challenge the Yankees for the division title. Their rotation is among the best in the game led by their Big Three of Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Charlie Blackmon. Their bullpen is sneaky good led by closer Nick Anderson, Oliver Drake, and Jose Alvardo. Their offense is very solid led by Austin Meadows, new add Hunter Renfroe, Brandon Lowe, and Yandy Diaz. The Boston Red Sox will take a major step back after trading away Mookie Betts and David Price as well as ace pitcher Chris Sale being out for the season with Tommy John Surgery. Nathan Eovaldi will be their Opening Day starter as Eduardo Rodriguez is coming back from having Covid-19. The rest of their rotation is filled with unproven guys. Brandon Workman is slated to be their closer. Their offense will put up their runs led by JD Martinez, Rafael Devers, and Xander Bogaerts. The Toronto Blue Jays are a team that is certainly heading in the right direction. Hyun-Jin Ryu was their big free agent prize to lead their pitching staff and young pitching prospect Tanner Pearson could join the rotation at some point too. Tanner Roark and Chase Anderson were veterans the team also added to their rotation. Ken Giles is still around as their closer and is coming off one of his better seasons. Their offense is filled with youth and potential led by Vladimir Guerrero Jr, Bo Bichette, and Cavan Biggio. The Baltimore Orioles are a team that is still rebuilding. John Means is coming off a career year and is their best pitcher, but the rest of their rotation is bad. Their bullpen has some interesting guys such as closer Mychal Givens and Hunter Harvey. Their offense has guys like Renato Nunez and Hanser Alberto coming off career years, but are bound for regression. They will also miss veteran Trey Mancini since he is battling cancer.

AL Central
1. Cleveland Indians- 36-24
2. Chicago White Sox- 34-26
3. Minnesota Twins- 31-29
4. Kansas City Royals- 22-38
5. Detroit Tigers- 21-39

This is one of the more wide open divisions in all of baseball, and due to the season only being 60-games I give the advantage to the Cleveland Indians, who are being disrespected by some experts. Their loaded pitching staff is why they have the advantage here lead by Shane Bieber, Mike Clevenger and Carlos Corrasco. Their bullpen is solid too led by closer Brad Hand, Hunter Wood, and Adam Cimber. Their offense has potential to be very good too led by Francisco Lindor, Jose Ramirez, Carlos Santana, and Franmil Reyes. The Chicago White Sox have a chance at surprising some folks this season and I believe they will get into the postseason. Michael Kopech will be missed for the season as he's opted out, recovering from Tommy John Surgery. Lucas Giolito is coming off a breakout season and he and new addition Dallas Keuchel will lead that rotation. Their closer is Alex Colome and they have other veteran 'pen arms such as Steve Cishek and Kelvin Herrera. Their offense has a real shot of being awesome led by Jose Abreu, Yoan Moncada, Eloy Jimenez, and rookie Luis Robert with possibly second base prospect Nick Madrigal joining the team too. The Minnesota Twins had an unbelievable season last year, but I believe are due for some regression. Jose Berrios leads their rotation and Jake Odorizzi is coming off a career year. Veterans Kenta Maeda, Homer Bailey, and Rich Hill were added to help out. Their bullpen doesn't thrill me with Taylor Rodgers as their closer and veterans Tyler Clippard and Sergio Romo are there too. Their offense is even better than the one that broke the MLB single season home-run record with Josh Donaldson coming in free agency joining Max Kepler, Eddie Rosario, Mitch Garver, and Miguel Sano, although a few of those guys are due for some regression. The Kansas City Royals are still rebuilding. Top pitching prospect Brady Singer is expected to be apart of the rotation this season along with Brad Keller, Danny Duffy, and Jakob Junis. Their bullpen is not good and Ian Kennedy is their closer. Salvador Perez will be back after missing last season with Tommy John surgery and he'll join a young offense led by Jorge Soler, Hunter Dozier, and Adalebrto Mondesi. The Detroit Tigers are another young and rebuilding team in the division. Matthew Boyd is slated to start Opening Day and Michael Fulmer could be back in the mix this season too. I won't be shocked to see top pitching prospect Casey Mize pitch in the rotation at some point too. Their bullpen is not good, although Joe Jimenez isn't a bad closer. Their offense is among the worst in the game and Miguel Cabrera is not the same guy as he was even four years ago. They do have some tradable players like Jonathan School and CJ Cron if they live up to their reputations.

AL West
1. Oakland Athletics- 37-23
2. Houston Astros- 33-27
3. Texas Rangers- 29-31
4. Los Angeles Angels- 25-35
5. Seattle Mariners- 23-37

I do believe this division could be better than some people may think, but I am going to roll with the dice with the team that tends to play great in the hot weather in a normal season- the Oakland Athletics. The teams starting pitching has a chance to be the best in the division led by Sean Manaea, Frankie Montas, and young stud prospect Jesus Luzardo. Unfortunately, AJ Puk may not pitch this season due to a shoulder issue. The bullpen is really good led by closer Liam Hendricks, Joakim Soria, and Lou Trivino. The offense is among one of the leagues best and deepest led by Matt Chapman, Matt Olson, and Khris Davis. The Houston Astros could be in for some regression and turmoil due to the free agent loss of Gerrit Cole and AJ Hinch being fired due to the cheating scandal with Dusty Baker replacing him. Justin Verlander and Zack Greinke lead that rotation and they need Lance McCullers Jr to be the guy he was before Tommy John surgery and Josh James and Jose Urqidy must step up too. Their bullpen has some good pieces including closer Roberto Osuna, Chris Divenski, and Ryan Pressly. Their offense is still among the games best led by Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, Carlos Correa, George Springer, and Yordan Alvarez. The Texas Rangers have a chance to surprise some people this season and with the expanded playoffs now, they certainly have a shot to make it. They added Corey Kluber for their rotation to go with Lance Lynn and Mike Minor. Their bullpen is not very good with guys like closer Jose Leclerc, Jesse Chavez, and Luke Farrell. Their offense is not very good either although Joey Gallo is a star and guys like Rougned Odor, Todd Frazier, and Robinson Chirinos. The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim have a Joe Maddon as their manager in his second tenure, but this may be a long season for the team. Their rotation is suspect, but has some potential outside of Shohei Ohtani with guys like Griffin Canning, Dylan Bundy, and Julio Terehan. Their bullpen is not good and Hansel Robles is their closer. Their offense has Mike Trout, who people think could opt out and new addition Anthony Rendon, who is dealing with an oblique injury. The rest of the offense has guys like Albert Pujols and Justin Upton, who's best days are behind them. The Seattle Mariners are a team that's rebuilding. Marco Gonzalez is their likely Opening Day starter and Yusei Kikuchi is looking to have a better second season. Justin Dunn and Justus Sheffield are two young arms the team will be relying on too. Their closer is slated to be Matt Magill, but the rest of the bullpen is a mess. Their offense has some talented guys such as Daniel Vogelbach and Kyle Lewis and longtime third baseman Kyle Seager could be on the move.

NL East
1. Washington Nationals- 37-23
2. Atlanta Braves- 36-24
3. New York Mets- 35-25
4. Philadelphia Phillies- 30-30
5. Miami Marlins- 22-38

The Washington Nationals are the reigning World Series champions and I am picking them to claim the division crown for the first time in four seasons. Their rotation is loaded led by their Big Three of Max Scherzer, Stephen Strasburg, and Patrick Corbin. Anibal Sanchez is also very good in the fourth spot. Their bullpen silenced some doubters last season led by closer Sean Doolittle, Roenis Elias, and new addition Will Harris. Their offense does take a major hit with Anthony Rendon departing as a free agent. Juan Soto is in for a big season and guys like Carter Kieboom, Trea Turner, and Adam Eaton must step up. The Atlanta Braves won the division crown the last two seasons, but I have them as a Wild Card this season. Mike Soroka has emerged as the ace of the pitching staff and Cole Hamels was added as a veteran arm that can help them. Guys like Mike Foltynewicz and Max Fried are very promising as well. The New York Mets finished last season strong and I believe they will snag the last Wild Card spot. Noah Syndergaard will be missed due to Tommy John surgery, but reigning two-time Cy Young winner Jacob deGrom is still around and Marcus Stroman is in a contract year. Michael Wacha and Rick Porcello are one year fliers that can help them. The bullpen remains a question mark of some sorts, but closer Edwin Diaz could be in for a bounce back season and Dellin Betances was a great addition to go with Justin Wilson and Jeurys Familia as set up men. Their offense has a lot of potential led by Pete Alonso, Michael Conforto, and Yoenis Cespedes. The Philadelphia Phillies are a team that made some moves in the offseason with hopes to contend as well as hiring Joe Girardi as their new manager. Zach Wheeler was added to the rotation joining Aaron Nola and Jake Arrieta. Their bullpen remains a weakness and their closer is slated to be Hector Neris and its unknown whether David Robertson will be back this season or not. Their offense will be solid led by Bryce Harper, Rhys Hoskins, JT Realmuto, and new addition Didi Gregorius. The Miami Marlins are still in the midst of their rebuild. They have some promising rotation arms with guys like Sandy Alcantara, Jose Urena, and Caleb Smith. Brandon Kintzler is slated to be their closer and they have other solid 'pen arms such as Adam Conley and Ryne Stanek. Their offense has some veterans like Jonathan Villar and Jesus Aguilar and some young guys like Lewis Brinson, Jorge Alfaro, and Isan Diaz.

NL Central
1. Cincinnati Reds- 38-22
2. St. Louis Cardinals- 34-26
3. Chicago Cubs- 32-28
4. Milwaukee Brewers- 28-32
5. Pittsburgh Pirates- 23-37

The Cincinnati Reds made some big moves this offseason and showed significant improvement in the second half of the season to make themselves favorites to win this division. Luis Castillo, Trevor Bauer, and Sonny Gray are a terrific threesome to lead the rotation. Their bullpen is sneaky good led by closer Raisel Iglesias, Amir Garrett, and Pedro Strop. Nicholas Castellanos and Mike Moustakas join Eugenio Suarez and Joey Votto to form a formidable offense. The Cardinals are a team that should be solid yet again. Jack Flaherty leads the starting pitching after a breakout season a year ago and the rest of the rotation has the likes of Dakota Hudson, Adam Wainwright, and Carlos Martinez. The bullpen took a blow as Jordan Hicks opted out of the season and Andrew Miller is not the same guy anymore. Giovanny Gallegos is slated to be their closer, who had a nice year last year. The offense loses Marcell Ozuna, but still have Paul Goldschmidt, Paul DeJong, and Yadier Molina. The Chicago Cubs are a team thats championship window is closing (if it has not already) on this current core. The rotation consists of Jon Lester, Jose Quintana, Kyle Hendricks, and Yu Darvish. Their bullpen has a lot of questions, including whether closer Craig Kimbrel will bounce back from a disastrous season or not. The offense still has it's same current core guys including Javier Baez, Anthony Rizzo, Kris Bryant, and Kyle Schwarber. The Milwaukee Brewers are coming off back to back playoff appearances, but I do not see another one this season. Their starting pitching is nothing to ride home about with the likes of Brandon Woodruff, Brett Anderson, and Adrian Houser. Their bullpen is very good though led by all world closer Josh Hader, Corey Kneel, and Alex Claudio. Their offense is pretty good led by Christian Yelich and Keston Hiura. The Pittsburgh Pirates are another team that is rebuilding. Jamesion Taillon is out of the season still recovering from Tommy John surgery, so they have to rely on Trevor Williams and Joe Musgrove in their rotation and young prospect Mitch Keller also must step up for them. Their bullpen is not good although closer Keone Kela is solid. Their offense is not good either although they have a star player in Josh Bell and guys like Gregory Polanco must show some improvement.

NL West
1. Los Angeles Dodgers- 39-21
2. Arizona Diamondbacks- 34-26
3. San Diego Padres- 29-31
4. Colorado Rockies- 25-35
5. San Francisco Giants- 23-37

The Los Angeles Dodgers are the undisputed favorites to take home the National League West crown for the eighth year in a row. Walker Buehler and Clayton Kershaw will lead the rotation, although they won't have David Price since he opted out. Dustin May and Julio Urias must live up to potential in the middle/back of the rotation. Kenley Jansen has seen concerning decline over the past few seasons and new addition Blake Trienen must step up as a set-up man and Ross Stripling is capable of relieving and starting. Their offense is undoubtably great with the addition of Mookie Betts to go with Cody Bellinger, Justin Tuner, Max Muncy, and younger Gavin Lux. The Diamondbacks are a team that I believe will surprise folks this season. Madison Bumgarner was brought in to join Robbie Ray and Zach Gallen to form a nice threesome in their rotation. Archie Bradley has tantalizing stuff to be a very good closer, but the rest of the bullpen remains a question mark. The San Diego Padres are a team that are certainly on the rise. Chris Paddack and Dinelson Lamet lead the rotation and stud prospect Mackenzie Gore can join them at some point. Kirby Yates is one the best closers in all of baseball and Drew Pomeranz was added to help the 'pen. Their offense has a chance to be good led by Fernando Tatis Jr, Manny Machado, and new addition Tommy Pham. The Colorado Rockies are a team that could be heading closer to a rebuild. Their rotation has three polarizing arms in German Marquez, Kyle Freeland, and Jon Gray, who all have potential but have not put it all together. Their bullpen has some veteran arms such as closer Wade Davis and Scott Oberg. Their offense has a great threesome in Nolan Arenado, Trevor Story, and Charlie Blackmon as well as Brendan Rogers, who could be a breakout playler. The San Francisco Giants are a team that is on the verge of a major rebuild. Johnny Cueto is the Opening Day Starter with Madison Bumgarner gone and the rest of the rotation has guys like Jeff Samardzija, Drew Smyly, and Kevin Gausman. Tony Watson is slated to be their closer and the rest of their bullpen is not good. Their offense took a giant hit when Buster Posey opted out for the season and veterans Brandon Belt and Evan Longoria are dealing with injuries. Mike Yastrzemski had a nice year last year, but could be in for regression.

MLB Playoffs
- AL First Round
(8) Texas Rangers vs (1) New York Yankees: The Rangers are going to be the team that not many would expect to make the playoffs in a normal. I don't love their chances here, even in a three game series with a solid pitching staff since their offense is not that good.
Pick: Yankees in two games

(7) Minnesota Twins vs (2) Oakland Athletics: This should be a fun series between two playoff teams from a season ago. I believe this one takes three and I like the Athletics due to the fact their pitching staff is better than the Twin's staff.
Pick: Athletics in three games

(6) Houston Astros vs (3) Cleveland Indians: This is a great matchup between two teams that met in the postseason two years ago. I believe this will also go to a third game and I think the Indians young pitching will come through here.
Pick: Indians in three games

(5) Chicago White Sox vs (4) Tampa Bay Rays: This should be an interesting series between two up and coming teams. This is the White Sox first taste of postseason with their current core, but I don't love their chances against a Rays team that gained experience last season.
Pick: Rays in two games

- National League First Round
(8) Chicago Cubs vs (1) Los Angeles Dodgers: The networks would absolutely love this matchup with the two big markets. It's just unfortunate that this is not the same Cubs team as three-four years ago and the Dodgers are the much better team now.

Pick: Dodgers in two games

(7) Arizona Diamondbacks vs (2) Cincinnati Reds: This is another sneaky good first round series between two solid clubs. This could be an upset here, but I'm going to go with the Reds as their sneaky good bullpen is the difference here.

Pick: Reds in three games

(6) St. Louis Cardinals vs (3) Washington Nationals: Here we have a rematch of last season's NLCS in which the Nationals pulled off a sweep. This time around I think the Nats will get it done again, but not a sweep as the Cards will miss 'pen arm Jordan Hicks.
Pick: Nationals in three games

(5) New York Mets vs (4) Atlanta Braves: Here we have division rivals taking off in a three game series. If this was a one game playoff, I'd choose the Mets with Jacob deGrom presumably on the bump. Now, that its a best of three series, I will go with the Braves here to advance with their loaded lineup.
Pick: Braves in three games

- American League Division Series
(4) Tampa Bay Rays vs (1) New York Yankees: Here we have a division rival in the Division Round. The difference here will be the Yankees offense which is flat out better than the Rays and they will advance to the ALCS.
Pick: Yankees in four games

(3) Cleveland Indians vs (2) Oakland Athletics: This is a sneaky good playoff series between two solid teams. This was a tough call, but I think that the Athletics pitching steps up and the Indians won't be able to score with the A's.
Pick: Athletics in five games

- National League Division Series
(WC2) New York Mets vs (1) Los Angeles Dodgers: This is a series that FOX would love with the big markets. The difference here is the Dodgers lineup is much better than the Mets led by Mookie Betts and Cody Bellinger and Jacob deGrom can't pitch every game.
Pick: Dodgers in four games

(3) Washington Nationals vs (2) Cincinnati Reds: This is a sneaky good series between these two teams. Another tough call here, but I think the Reds new look offense and solid rotation will lead them to the NLCS as the Nationals will miss Anthony Rendon.
Pick: Reds in five games

- American League Championship Series
(2) Oakland Athletics vs (1) New York Yankees: This should be a sneaky fun series between two great teams. So many talented players and pitchers abound here, but ultimately prized free agent pickup Gerrit Cole will be the difference maker here for the Yankees to reach the Series for the first time in eleven years.
Pick: Yankees in six games

- National League Championship Series
(2) Cincinnati Reds vs (1) Los Angeles Dodgers: This also should be a very fun championship series between these two clubs. The Reds should be proud of themselves if they make it this far, but I think the Dodgers lineup depth is too much for the Reds to handle as they'll go to their third World Series in four seasons.
Pick: Dodgers in six games

- World Series
(AL1) New York Yankees vs (NL1) Los Angeles Dodgers: Yes, I predicted this matchup the last two years, but I believe it will finally come into fruition, even in what could be a wacky season. Two great lineups, two solid rotations, but the difference here is the bullpens. The Yankees have the better 'pen and Kenley Jansen is on the decline. Give me the Bronx Bombers to take home their twenty-eighth championship in franchise history and their first in eleven years.
Pick: Yankees in six games

2020 NBA Mock Draft: First Edition

Here is the first edition of my 2020 NBA Mock Draft.

1. Golden State Warriors- LaMelo Ball, Point Guard, USA: It's more likely than not that the Warriors will trade this pick to try to become a title contender yet again. If they kept this selection, Ball would be an odd fit here with Klay Thompson back from his torn ACL and Stephen Curry already at the point. On another team, Ball has All-Star potential with his playmaking ability, but doesn't shoot well.

2. Cleveland Cavaliers- Obi Toppin, Power Forward, Dayton: No player improved his draft stock during the shortened season more than Tobbin. The fit here with the Cavs is not great because they have three overpaid big men in Kevin Love, Tristian Thompson, and Andre Drummond, but maybe they'll trade one of them. Tobbin is super athletic and someone that could be an elite stretch five due to his ability to shoot.

3. Minnesota Timberwolves- Anthony Edwards, Shooting Guard, Georgia: This would be a great selection for the Timberwolves, who would get themselves a third scorer along with Karl-Anthony Towns and D'Angelo Russell. Edwards is someone that had shown a ton of potential in college, although inefficient.

4. Atlanta Hawks- James Weismann, Center, USA: The Hawks land one of the more fascinating players in the draft. Weismann was someone that withdrew from college after a money scandal with his former coach Penny Hardaway. He is someone that can protect the rim and is the perfect small ball big and would fit nicely alongside John Collins.

5. Detroit Pistons- Onyeka Okongwu, Power Forward/Center, USC: Okongwu is someone that flew under the radar due to being on the west coast and not coming from a school known to be a college basketball powerhouse. He is dominant in the paint with his shot blocking and ability to get buckets. The league is growing in terms of undersized bigs and that should not stop a team from taking a chance with Okongwu.

6. New York Knicks- Deni Avdija, Small Forward, Israel: The Knicks land a decent constellation prize here with a fast rising international star in Avdija. He's tall enough to play power forward, but skilled enough to play the wing. Avdija's shooting has also improved dramatically throughout the season and he and RJ Barrett would complement well.

7. Chicago Bulls- Isaac Okoro, Small Forward, Auburn: Okoro is someone else who's stock rose after the shortened college hoops season. He showed that he could be a solid three-and-D guy and that's what NBA teams love. The Bulls are a team that is in desperation for three-and-D players and Okoro would be a great pick here.

8. Charlotte Hornets- Patrick Williams, Small Forward, Florida State: The Hornets land themselves a fine player here with Williams. He is someone that is versatile and could defend multiple positions, but his offensive game is a work in progress. He and Miles Bridges together would be a fun combination to watch.

9. Washington Wizards- Killian Hayes, Point Guard, France: The Wizards are a sneaky candidate to trade their pick, but I doubt they will pull the trigger. Hayes is someone that is explosive but cannot shoot. He can come in and learn from John Wall and could potentially take over after Wall's hideous contract expires, unless they flat out cut him.

10. Phoenix Suns- Saddiq Bey, Small Forward, Villanova: Bey is someone that many tams like and could be a steal here at ten or if he falls further than this. Bey is versatile both offensively and defensively and that just fits the perfect player for today's NBA. He, Devin Booker, DeAndre Ayton, and Kelly Oubre is a very nice foursome to have.

11. San Antonio Spurs- Cole Anthony, Point Guard, North Carolina: I am much higher on Anthony then most people, mainly due to the fact he was playing at a high level in college before his knee injury that forced him to have surgery. He could have possibly gone first overall had not been for that knee injury and he'll be a steal for whomever drafts him, especially past the top five.

12. Sacramento Kings- Precious Achiuwa, Power Forward, Memphis: This would be a solid need pick for the Kings as they need another big alongside Marvin Bagley as he's someone that averaged a double-double in college after James Weismann left school. He's not a great shooter, but is effective around the rim and in transition.

13. New Orleans Pelicans- RJ Hampton, Shooting Guard, New Zealand: This could be a steal for the Pelicans as Hampton was more highly regarded before the basketball season started. Hampton is someone that is versatile and is a solid shooter and would be yet another building block to go with Zion Williamson.

14. Portland Trail Blazers- Aaron Nesmith, Small Forward, Vanderbilt: This would be a solid pick for the Blazers, who still need help on the wing. Although a small sample size before a foot injury, he shot incredibly well in the midst of what looked to be a breakout season, especially from three point land.

15. Orlando Magic- Tyrese Maxey, Shooting Guard, Kentucky: The Magic's biggest weakness is a scoring guard, and this selection would help address the issue. Maxey is someone that did not live up to expectations as a freshman for John Calipari's team, although he showed flashes with his creativity in the paint and is a better shooter than perceived.

16. Minnesota Timberwolves (from Brooklyn Nets)- Devin Vassell, Small Forward, Florida State: Vassell at this point for the Timberwolves would be a steal as many people think he could go in the lottery. Vassell is your classic three-and-D player who shoots above average from beyond the arc. He and Anthony Edwards would be a great draft for the Wolves.

17. Boston Celtics (from Memphis Grizzlies)- Theo Maledon, Point Guard, France: The Celtics have this pick courtesy of the Jeff Green trade from five years ago. Maledon showed some potential for a young age, but was mostly underwhelming due to injury issues. This could very well be a draft-and-stash prospect for the Celtics.

18. Dallas Mavericks- Isaiah Stewart, Center, Washington: This is a classic need pick as Dallas lacks a big to put alongside Kristaps Porzingis. Stewart is someone that some people have doubts about due  to spacing issues but did bring solid production to the table for a lousy Washington Huskies team last season.

19. Milwaukee Bucks (from Indiana Pacers)- Tyrese Haliburton, Point Guard, Iowa State: This would be a major steal for the Bucks, who could conceivably replace Malcolm Brogdon with the pick they acquired from the Pacers in the sign and trade last summer. Haliburton's season was cut short last year due to injury and he showed an ability to consistently hit shots and he is a solid rebounder and passer too.

20. Brooklyn Nets (from Philadelphia 76ers)- Kira Lewis Jr, Point Guard, Alabama: Lewis is someone that came in to college with expectations, but returned to school last year and performed better then he did as a Freshman. He's a solid perimeter shooter and could be a steal at this point in the draft.

21. Philadelphia 76ers (from Oklahoma City Thunder)- Jalen Smith, Center, Maryland: Now the draft gets a little unpredictable. The Sixers go with value here with Smith, who could come in and backup Joel Embiid. Smith is another player who improved as a Sophomore and showed some versatility along the way.

22. Denver Nuggets (from Houston Rockets)- Jahmi'us Ramsey, Shooting Guard, Texas Tech: Ramsey is someone that was solid as a Freshman for Chris Beard's squad. He's someone that screams high energy guy off the bench for a contender. Those reasons are why this would be a great pick for the Nuggets, who fit that bill.

23. Miami Heat- Nico Mannion, Point Guard, Arizona: This would be a possible steal for the Heat, who need some youth at the position as they keep on reloading on the fly. Mannion is not someone that has great athleticism or can shoot well, but he has other qualities that could make him a solid player in the league.

24. Utah Jazz- Jaden McDaniels, Power Forward, Washington: McDaniels was super disappointing in college a year ago on what was the most disappointing team in the sport as he lead the Pac-12 in fouls per game. The one thing that could get McDaniels picked in the first round is upside.

25. Oklahoma City Thunder (from Denver Nuggets)- Josh Green, Shooting Guard, Arizona: This would be a solid pick for a team that has a good mix of younger guys and veterans like the Thunder. Green is someone that is a great defensive player, but limited offensively although better than current Thunder player Andre Roberson.

26. Boston Celtics- Xavier Tillman, Power Forward, Michigan State: The Celtics have a lot of bigs now, although they don't have one that jumps right out at you. Tillman is someone that was one of the better bigs in the country with his strength and size, although not a great perimeter shooter despite averaging a double-double.

27. New York Knicks (from Los Angeles Clippers)- Vernon Carey Jr, Power Forward/Center, Duke: This would be a steal for the Knicks, who grab someone who I thought could have been a possibly lottery pick at this time six months ago. He has good skills, but is not explosive or length.

28. Toronto Raptors- Mamadi Diakite, Power Forward, Virginia: Diakite is someone that lands in a great situation in Toronto. He's a glue guy that always made big plays and was under-appreciated in college. Diakite was always a solid defender in college and his three-point shot was coming along this season.

29. Los Angeles Lakers- Cassius Winston, Point Guard, Michigan State: This would be a steal for the Lakers, who grab someone who many thought would be a lottery pick before the college basketball season. Personal issues really were a distraction for Winston, who isn't a great athlete but is smart and is a solid shooter.

30. Boston Celtics (from Milwaukee Bucks)- Cassius Stanley, Shooting Guard, Duke: Stanley is someone else that could be a steal in the late first round or early second round. He is someone that is a solid shooter from three and is great in the transition game.

2020 MLB Mock Draft: Final Edition

Here is the final edition of my 2020 MLB Mock Draft.

1. Detroit Tigers- Spencer Torkelson, First Baseman/Left Fielder, Arizona State: It seems like Torkelson is the overwhelming favorite to go first overall. Torkelson was one of the most-feared hitter in all of college baseball throughout the last three seasons. There is a chance that he also blows through the minors and is in the bigs sooner than people expect.

2. Baltimore Orioles- Austin Martin, Third Baseman/Center Fielder, Vanderbilt: The Orioles have a tough decision as they can go with Martin or the best pitcher in the draft with Asa Lacy. They go with Martin dazzles with a hit tool that is easily plus, utilizing a swing with natural loft and double plus bat speed.

3. Miami Marlins- Asa Lacy, LHP, Texas A&M: The Marlins are happy with whomever falls to them whether it's Lacy or Austin Martin. Lacy is someone that is equipped with a four pitch mix, two of which already grade at plus-or-better (fastball and slider) with another (changeup) seemingly on its way.

4. Kansas City Royals- Zac Veen, Outfielder, Spruce Creek HS (FL): The Royals go with the fast rising prep school prospect here with Veen. Many believe he's the best high school player in the draft and his vision at the plate looks advanced well beyond his age and allows his violent swing to barrel up balls with ease, leading to the hit tool grading at average while projecting better at peak.

5. Toronto Blue Jays- Max Meyer, RHP, Minnesota: The Blue Jays pull off a little surprise to some as they go with Meyer over Emerson Hancock. The risk here with Meyer is that he was a former closer that doesn't have much starting experience.

6. Seattle Mariners- Nick Gonzales, Second Baseman, New Mexico State: Gonzales is one of the more interesting prospects as we head closer to the draft. Folks are skeptical of him due to putting up great numbers against lesser competition. Some think Gonzales won’t be able to stick at second base long term, he has the make up and work ethic of being able to keep the elite hit tool he carries at the keystone.

7. Pittsburgh Pirates- Emerson Hancock, RHP, Georgia: If Hancock makes it here, the Pirates should be doing backflips. There's a case to be made that Hancock is the best pitcher in the draft, but he probably is the safest bet in terms of pure starting pitchers. Hancock presents the same four pitch mix as Asa Lacy (fastball, slider, curveball, changeup) with less electricity but more command and polish.

8. San Diego Padres- Robert Hassell III, OF, Independence HS (TN): The Padres could go in a number of directions here and they go for the prep player in Hassell. He is someone that could go higher than this due to his pure hitting ability and his bat control.

9. Colorado Rockies- Reid Detmers, LHP, Louisville: This would be a great selection for the Angels, who badly need pitching in their farm system. The curveball is unspeakably good, which is on all of the time. He pounds the strike zone great and is great at getting swings and misses.

10. Los Angeles Angels- Heston Kjerstad, Outfielder, Arkansas: The Angels are a bit of a wild card with this selection, but they should pounce on Kjerstad, who would be a steal with this selection. Kjerstad is someone that has a unique, complex left handed swing he brings to the table with double plus raw power who many compare to Philadelphia's Rhys Hoskins.

11. Chicago White Sox- Garrett Crochet, RHP, Tennessee: The White Sox go with the talented college arm with Crochet here. Inconsistency and an early season injury is what will probably cost him from going higher than this, but with a plus slider and a developing changeup, the Tennessee product has some of the best raw stuff in this class.

12. Cincinnati Reds- Cade Cavalli, RHP, Oklahoma: The Reds throw a curveball here and take a chance here with Cavalli. This could be a risky pick due to the flaws he has and injury issues. What makes him intriguing is his ability to strike guys out and his great fastball and a devastating slider.

13. San Francisco Giants- Tyler Sodestrom, Catcher. Turlock HS (CA): The Giants could go in a number of directions here with this selection, but they pull of a upset here with Sodestrom being taken before Patrick Bailey. Soderstrom is one of the best all-around high school bats in the country and could go higher than this since he is very well rounded.

14. Texas Rangers- Patrick Bailey, Catcher, North Carolina State: The Rangers are a bit of a wild card with this selection. Bailey is a defense first catcher who's shown great athleticism and a switch hitter that's shown power on both sides with solid tools in front and Bailey brings a special combination of the two.

15. Philadelphia Phillies- Austin Hendrick, Outfielder, West Allegheny HS (PA): Hendrick is someone that is curiously slipping as we are here on draft day. Hendrick is perhaps the best power hitting prep player in this draft although there are concerns due to a high number of strikeouts.

16. Chicago Cubs- Garrett Mitchell, Center Fielder, UCLA: Mitchell is a prospect that is dropping in a lot of mock drafts and could drop further than this on draft night. He is a great athlete and generates a ton of power and speed, but there is risk due to his swing and miss concerns and due to his Type-1 diabetes.

17. Boston Red Sox- Mick Abel, RHP, Jesuit HS (OR): A top prospect who was hurt by the shortened 2020 season falls here to the Red Sox. The righty has a clean, fluid delivery that offers projection and the potential for him to have three above-average pitches. He has all the makings of being a top-of-the-rotation arm.

18. Arizona Diamondbacks- Pete-Crow Armstrong, Outfielder, Harvard-Westlake HS (CA): The Diamondbacks go with an upside play here with Armstrong, who could possibly go higher than this. The left-handed-hitting center fielder has five-tool potential and is a prototypical, top-of-the-lineup hitter with the defensive abilities to stick in centerfield.

19. New York Mets- Cole Wilcox, RHP, Georgia: Wilcox is one of the more underrated arms in this class and the Mets would gladly take him here. Wilcox leans on two plus pitches in the fastball and slider, but he is only a sophomore that doesn't have much starting experience.

20. Milwaukee Brewers- Dillon Dingler, Catcher, Ohio State: The Brewers farm system is perhaps the worst in baseball so they are under pressure to get this pick right. Catchers who can stay behind the plate are hard to find and Dingler is athletic with excellent defensive skills and he could possibly go a few picks earlier.

21. St. Louis Cardinals- Nick Bitsko, RHP, Central Bucks East HS (PA): This pick could really turn out to be a steal for the Cardinals. Bitsko is someone that can drop out of the first round due to the lack of information due to the shortened season, but he is just as advanced as any prep arm in the pitch feel department.

22. Washington Nationals- Bryce Jarvis, RHP, Duke: The Nationals are a team that is somewhat predictable with their draft choices, but this one that people may be surprised by. Jarvis is someone who people in the industry believe he can blow through the minor leagues and could be pitching in the big leagues this season.

23. Cleveland Indians- Jared Kelley, RHP, Refugio HS (Texas): The Indians get themselves a steal here with the prep arm in Kelley, who many people think can go in the top fifteen. Many people project Kelley to be a front-line starter and has confidence in his swing-and-miss changeup and displays potential with his slider.

24. Tampa Bay Rays- Ed Howard, Shortstop, Mount Carmel HS (IL): The Rays could go in a number of directions here with the selection. Here I have them snagging the talented prep shortstop in Howard, who has ability to make all the plays necessary to stick at shortstop stands out and can seem to cover ground effortlessly without having a plus speed tool.

25. Atlanta Braves- Chris McMahon, RHP, Miami: The Braves are a team that's in good shape in terms of it's farm system. Here I have them taking the polished righty in McMahon, who flashes an exciting three pitch mix that all possess above-average-or-better qualities.

26. Oakland Athletics- Justin Foscue, Second Baseman, Mississippi State: The Athletics are a team that loves taking college players and here I have them taking one with Foscue. He is someone that has a chance to be an impact hitter, but he is limited defensively.

27. Minnesota Twins- Aaron Sabato, First Baseman, North Carolina: Sabato is someone that is a last minute fast riser as the draft is approaching this week. He is not a great defensive player, but he has the bat from a power and plate discipline standpoint for him to be taken in the first round.

28. New York Yankees- Nick Loftin, Shortstop, Baylor: Word on the street is that the Yankees will likely head for a college position player and they grab one here with Loftin. He is someone a lot of people feel can go higher than this due to his bat-to-ball skills and his ability to stay up the middle defensively.

29. Los Angeles Dodgers- Slade Cecconi, RHP, Miami: The Dodgers could go in any direction they'd like to due to their loaded farm system, so here I have them taking the college arm in Cecconi. Many people project Cecconi to be a reliever in the future and his pure stuff measures up against a lot of other college arms.

2020 MLB Mock Draft: Sixth Edition

Here is the sixth edition of my 2020 MLB Mock Draft.

1. Detroit Tigers- Spencer Torkelson, First Baseman/Left Fielder, Arizona State: It seems like Torkelson is the overwhelming favorite to go first overall. Torkelson was one of the most-feared hitter in all of college baseball throughout the last three seasons. There is a chance that he also blows through the minors and is in the bigs sooner than people expect.

2. Baltimore Orioles- Austin Martin, Third Baseman/Center Fielder, Vanderbilt: The Orioles have a tough decision as they can go with Martin or the best pitcher in the draft with Asa Lacy. They go with Martin dazzles with a hit tool that is easily plus, utilizing a swing with natural loft and double plus bat speed.

3. Miami Marlins- Asa Lacy, LHP, Texas A&M: The Marlins are happy with whomever falls to them whether it's Lacy or Austin Martin. Lacy is someone that is equipped with a four pitch mix, two of which already grade at plus-or-better (fastball and slider) with another (changeup) seemingly on its way.

4. Kansas City Royals- Zac Veen, Outfielder, Spruce Creek HS (FL): The Royals go with the fast rising prep school prospect here with Veen. Many believe he's the best high school player in the draft and his vision at the plate looks advanced well beyond his age and allows his violent swing to barrel up balls with ease, leading to the hit tool grading at average while projecting better at peak.

5. Toronto Blue Jays- Emerson Hancock, RHP, Georgia: There's a case to be made that Hancock is the best pitcher in the draft, but he probably is the safest bet in terms of pure starting pitchers. Hancock presents the same four pitch mix as Asa Lacy (fastball, slider, curveball, changeup) with less electricity but more command and polish.

6. Seattle Mariners- Nick Gonzalez, Second Baseman, New Mexico State: Gonzales is one of the more interesting prospects as we head closer to the draft. Folks are skeptical of him due to putting up great numbers against lesser competition. Some think Gonzales won’t be able to stick at second base long term, he has the make up and work ethic being able to keep the elite hit tool he carries at the keystone.

7. Pittsburgh Pirates- Max Meyer, RHP, Minnesota: This would be an interesting selection for the Pirates as they should be targeting a pitcher with this selection. The risk here with Meyer is that he was a former closer that doesn't have much starting experience.

8. San Diego Padres- Robert Hassell III, OF, Independence HS (TN): The Padres could go in a number of directions here and they go for the prep player in Hassell. He is someone that could go higher than this due to his pure hitting ability and his bat control.

9. Colorado Rockies- Heston Kjerstad, Outfielder, Arkansas: The Rockies are a team that really should be going with a pitcher with this pick, but there's rumors that they don't love the high end pitchers in a pitching rich draft. Kjerstad is someone that has a unique, complex left handed swing he brings to the table with double plus raw power who many compare to Philadelphia's Rhys Hoskins.

10. Los Angeles Angels- Reid Detmers, LHP, Louisville: This would be a great selection for the Angels, who badly need pitching in their farm system. The curveball is unspeakably good, which is on all of the time. He pounds the strike zone great and is great at getting swings and misses.

11. Chicago White Sox- Patrick Bailey, Catcher, North Carolina State: The White Sox are a bit of a wild card with this selection. Bailey is a defense first catcher who's shown great athleticism and a switch hitter that's shown power on both sides with solid tools in front and Bailey brings a special combination of the two.

12. Cincinnati Reds- Austin Hendrick, Outfielder, West Allegheny HS (PA): Hendrick is one of the fast rising prospects as the draft is a week away. Hendrick is perhaps the best power hitting prep player in this draft although there are concerns due to a high number of strikeouts.

13. San Francisco Giants- Garrett Mitchell, Center Fielder, UCLA: Mitchell is a prospect that is dropping in a lot of mock drafts and could drop further than this on draft night. He is a great athlete and generates a ton of power and speed, but there is risk due to his swing and miss concerns and due to his Type-1 diabetes.

14. Texas Rangers- Jared Kelley, RHP, Refugio HS (Texas): The Rangers get themselves a potential front line starter here with Kelley. He's hard throwing and has solid command as well as a plus changeup that sits 82-84 to keep hitters uncomfortable at the plate.

15. Philadelphia Phillies- Tyler Soderstrom, Catcher/Outfielder, Turlock HS (CA): The Phillies could go in a number of directions here with this selection. Soderstrom is one of the best all-around high school bats in the country and could go higher than this since he is very well rounded.

16. Chicago Cubs- Garrett Crochet, LHP, Tennessee: This would be a steal for the Cubs as they land a very good college arm with this selection. Inconsistency and an early season injury is what will probably cost him from going higher than this, but with a plus slider and a developing changeup, the Tennessee product has some of the best raw stuff in this class.

17. Boston Red Sox- Mick Abel, RHP, Jesuit HS (OR): A top prospect who was hurt by the shortened 2020 season falls here to the Red Sox. The righty has a clean, fluid delivery that offers projection and the potential for him to have three above-average pitches. He has all the makings of being a top-of-the-rotation arm.

18. Arizona Diamondbacks- Pete-Crow Armstrong, Outfielder, Harvard-Westlake HS (CA): The Diamondbacks go with an upside play here with Armstrong, who could possibly go higher than this. The left-handed-hitting center fielder has five-tool potential and is a prototypical, top-of-the-lineup hitter with the defensive abilities to stick in centerfield.

19. New York Mets- Cade Cavalli, RHP, Oklahoma: This would be a possible steal here for the Mets as they land someone who can conceivably go as high as 13. Cavalli was the ace of the Sooners's staff who people are mixed about. This could be a risky pick due to the flaws he has and injury issues. What makes him intriguing is his ability to strike guys out and his great fastball and a devastating slider.

20. Milwaukee Brewers- Tanner Burns, RHP, Auburn: The Brewers are a team that has perhaps the worst farm system in baseball and they go with the talented college arm in Burns here. He has three above average pitches with his fastball, curveball, changeup and he throws them with solid command. Burns also has great pitching history in the SEC, which matters to a lot of scouts.

21. St. Louis Cardinals- Cole Wilcox, RHP, Georgia: Wilcox is one of the more underrated arms in this class and the Cardinals would gladly take him here. Wilcox leans on two plus pitches in the fastball and slider, but he is only a sophomore that doesn't have much starting experience.

22. Washington Nationals- JT Ginn, RHP, Mississippi State: Ginn was someone that was drafted a few years ago, but opted to go back to school. Blowing out his elbow and getting Tommy John Surgery is what perhaps cost Ginn to go in the top 10. The Nationals are a team that has a history of taking players with risks, so they continue that track record here.

23. Cleveland Indians- Ed Howard, Shortstop, Mount Carmel HS (IL): The Indians could go in a number of directions here with the selection. Here I have them snagging the talented prep shortstop in Howard, who has ability to make all the plays necessary to stick at shortstop stands out and can seem to cover ground effortlessly without having a plus speed tool.

24. Tampa Bay Rays- Jordan Westburg, Third Baseman/Shortstop, Mississippi State: The Rays are in excellent shape farm system wise so they can go in any direction they'd like. Westburg is super versatile and possesses above average power and speed, with a decent shot to stick at shortstop defensively to boot.

25. Atlanta Braves- Chris McMahon, RHP, Miami: The Braves are another team that's in good shape in terms of it's farm system. Here I have them taking the polished righty in McMahon, who flashes an exciting three pitch mix that all possess above-average-or-better qualities.

26. Oakland Athletics- Nick Loftin, Shortstop, Baylor: The Athletics are a team that loves taking college players and here I have them taking one with Loftin. He is someone a lot of people feel will go higher than this due to his bat-to-ball skills and his ability to stay up the middle defensively.

27. Minnesota Twins- Clayton Beeter, RHP, Texas Tech: The Twins should be going for a pitcher with this selection and I have them snagging one here with Beeter. He could very well go higher than this due to his big velocity on the fastball and great spin on the out-pitch curveball.

28. New York Yankees- Dillon Dingler, Catcher, Ohio State: The Yankees farm system is not what it was three-four years ago, so they should go with whom they feel is the best player available, despite rumors of them linked to college bats. Catchers who can stay behind the plate are hard to find and Dingler is athletic with excellent defensive skills and he could possibly go a few picks earlier.

29. Los Angeles Dodgers- Bobby Miller, RHP, Louisville: The Dodgers could go in a number of directions here and they're farm system is loaded so there a team that can afford that. Miller could go higher than this or not go in the first round at all and he's someone that is very solid and improved each season in college.

2020 MLB Mock Draft: Fifth Edition

Here is the fifth edition of my 2020 MLB Mock Draft.

1. Detroit Tigers- Spencer Torkelson, First Baseman/Left Fielder, Arizona State: It seems like Torkelson is the overwhelming favorite to go first overall. Torkelson was one of the most-feared hitter in all of college baseball throughout the last three seasons. There is a chance that he also blows through the minors and is in the bigs sooner than people expect.

2. Baltimore Orioles- Austin Martin, Third Baseman/Center Fielder, Vanderbilt: The Orioles have a tough decision as they can go with Martin or the best pitcher in the draft with Asa Lacy. They go with Martin dazzles with a hit tool that is easily plus, utilizing a swing with natural loft and double plus bat speed.

3. Miami Marlins- Asa Lacy, LHP, Texas A&M: The Marlins are happy with whomever falls to them whether it's Lacy or Austin Martin. Lacy is someone that is equipped with a four pitch mix, two of which already grade at plus-or-better (fastball and slider) with another (changeup) seemingly on its way.

4. Kansas City Royals- Zac Veen, Outfielder, Spruce Creek HS (FL): The Royals go with the fast rising prep school prospect here with Veen. Many believe he's the best high school player in the draft and his vision at the plate looks advanced well beyond his age and allows his violent swing to barrel up balls with ease, leading to the hit tool grading at average while projecting better at peak.

5. Toronto Blue Jays- Emerson Hancock, RHP, Georgia: There's a case to be made that Hancock is the best pitcher in the draft, but he probably is the safest bet in terms of pure starting pitchers. Hancock presents the same four pitch mix as Asa Lacy (fastball, slider, curveball, changeup) with less electricity but more command and polish.

6. Seattle Mariners- Max Meyer, LHP, Minnesota: The Mariners have options with this selection and here I have them taking a risk with Meyer. The risk here with Meyer is that he was a former closer that doesn't have much starting experience. The Mariners are a team that can somewhat afford to take the risk due to their loaded farm system.

7. Pittsburgh Pirates- Nick Gonzalez, Second Baseman, New Mexico State: The Pirates land a steal here with this selection. Gonzales is one of the more interesting prospects as we head closer to the draft. Folks are skeptical of him due to putting up great numbers against lesser competition and some people think he won't be able to stick at second base.

8. San Diego Padres- Robert Hassell III, OF, Independence HS (TN): The Padres could go in a number of directions here and they go for the prep player in Hassell. He is someone that could go higher than this due to his pure hitting ability and his bat control.

9. Colorado Rockies- Heston Kjerstad, Outfielder, Arkansas: The Rockies are a team that really should be going with a pitcher with this pick, but there's rumors that they don't love the high end pitchers in a pitching rich draft. Kjerstad is someone that has a unique, complex left handed swing he brings to the table with double plus raw power who many compare to Philadelphia's Rhys Hoskins.

10. Los Angeles Angels- Reid Detmers, LHP, Louisville: This would be a great selection for the Angels, who badly need pitching in their farm system. The curveball is unspeakably good, which is on all of the time. He pounds the strike zone great and is great at getting swings and misses.

11. Chicago White Sox- Patrick Bailey, Catcher, North Carolina State: The White Sox are a bit of a wild card with this selection. Bailey is a defense first catcher who's shown great athleticism and a switch hitter that's shown power on both sides with solid tools in front and Bailey brings a special combination of the two.

12. Cincinnati Reds- Austin Hendrick, Outfielder, West Allegheny HS (PA): Hendrick is one of the fast rising prospects as the draft is a week away. Hendrick is perhaps the best power hitting prep player in this draft although there are concerns due to a high number of strikeouts.

13. San Francisco Giants- Garrett Crochet, LHP, Tennessee: This would be a nice pick for the Giants as they land a very good college arm with this selection, who has drawn comparison to Madison Bumgarner. Inconsistency and an early season injury is what will probably cost him from going higher than this, but with a plus slider and a developing changeup, the Tennessee product has some of the best raw stuff in this class.

14. Texas Rangers- Garrett Mitchell, Center Fielder, UCLA: Mitchell is a prospect that is dropping in a lot of mock drafts and could drop further than this on draft night. He is a great athlete and generates a ton of power and speed, but there is risk due to his swing and miss concerns and due to his Type-1 diabetes.

15. Philadelphia Phillies- Tyler Soderstrom, Catcher/Outfielder, Turlock HS (CA): The Phillies could go in a number of directions here with this selection. Soderstrom is one of the best all-around high school bats in the country and could go higher than this since he is very well rounded.

16. Chicago Cubs- Cade Cavalli, RHP, Oklahoma: The Cubs land a possible steal with this selection. Cavalli was the ace of the Sooners's staff who people are mixed about. This could be a risky pick due to the flaws he has and injury issues. What makes him intriguing is his ability to strike guys out and his great fastball and a devastating slider.

17. Boston Red Sox- Mick Abel, RHP, Jesuit HS (OR): A top prospect who was hurt by the shortened 2020 season falls here to the Red Sox. The righty has a clean, fluid delivery that offers projection and the potential for him to have three above-average pitches. He has all the makings of being a top-of-the-rotation arm.

18. Arizona Diamondbacks- Pete-Crow Armstrong, Outfielder, Harvard-Westlake HS (CA): The Diamondbacks go with an upside play here with Armstrong, who could possibly go higher than this. The left-handed-hitting center fielder has five-tool potential and is a prototypical, top-of-the-lineup hitter with the defensive abilities to stick in centerfield.

19. New York Mets- Ed Howard, Shortstop, Mount Carmel HS (IL): The Mets could go in a number of directions here with the selection. Here I have them snagging the talented prep shortstop in Howard, who has ability to make all the plays necessary to stick at shortstop stands out and can seem to cover ground effortlessly without having a plus speed tool.

20. Milwaukee Brewers- Clayton Beeter, RHP, Texas Tech: The Brewers have perhaps the worst farm system in baseball and they need to nail this pick. Beeter is rising up draft boards due to his big velocity on the fastball and great spin on the out-pitch curveball.

21. St. Louis Cardinals- Cole Wilcox, RHP, Georgia: Wilcox is one of the more underrated arms in this class and the Cardinals would gladly take him here. Wilcox leans on two plus pitches in the fastball and slider, but he is only a sophomore that doesn't have much starting experience.

22. Washington Nationals- Jared Kelley, RHP, Refugio HS (Texas): The Nationals get themselves a 
steal here with the prep arm in Kelley, who many people think can go in the top fifteen. Many people project Kelley to be a front-line starter and has confidence in his swing-and-miss changeup and displays potential with his slider.

23. Cleveland Indians- Nick Bitsko, RHP, Central Bucks East HS (PA): This pick could really turn out to be a steal for the Indians. Bitsko is someone that can drop out of the first round due to the lack of information due to the shortened season, but he is just as advanced as any prep arm in the pitch feel department.

24. Tampa Bay Rays- Dillon Dingler, Catcher, Ohio State: The Rays are in good shape in terms of their farm system, so there's no pressure on them to make a certain selection. Catchers who can stay behind the plate are hard to find and Dingler is athletic with excellent defensive skills and he could possibly go a few picks earlier.

25. Atlanta Braves- Bryce Jarvis, RHP, Duke: The Braves are another team that's in great shape in terms of their farm system. Here I have them selecting Jarvis, who some people in the industry believe he can blow through the minor leagues and could be pitching in the big leagues this season.

26. Oakland Athletics- Nick Loftin, Shortstop, Baylor: The Athetics have a recent history of taking college players and they take one here with Loftin. He is someone a lot of people feel will go higher than this due to his bat-to-ball skills and his ability to stay up the middle defensively.

27. Minnesota Twins- Slade Cecconi, RHP, Miami: The Twins should be going for a pitcher with this selection and I have them snagging one here with Cecconi. Many people project Cecconi to be a reliever in the future and his pure stuff measures up against a lot of other college arms.

28. New York Yankees- Aaron Sabato, First Baseman, North Carolina: Sabato is someone that is a last minute fast riser as the draft is approaching this week. He is not a great defensive player, but he has the bat from a power and plate discipline standpoint for him to be taken in the first round.

29. Los Angeles Dodgers- Chris McMahon, RHP, Miami: The Twins should be looking at pitching with this selection and they land a solid one here in McMahon. He flashes an exciting three pitch mix that all possess above-average-or-better qualities.

2020 MLB Mock Draft: Fourth Edition

Here is the fourth edition of my 2020 MLB Mock Draft.

1. Detroit Tigers- Spencer Torkelson, First Baseman/Left Fielder, Arizona State: It seems like Torkelson is the overwhelming favorite to go first overall. Torkelson was one of the most-feared hitter in all of college baseball throughout the last three seasons. There is a chance that he also blows through the minors and is in the bigs sooner than people expect.

2. Baltimore Orioles- Austin Martin, Third Baseman/Center Fielder, Vanderbilt: The Orioles have a tough decision as they can go with Martin or the best pitcher in the draft with Asa Lacy. They go with Martin dazzles with a hit tool that is easily plus, utilizing a swing with natural loft and double plus bat speed.

3. Miami Marlins- Asa Lacy, LHP, Texas A&M: The Marlins are happy with whomever falls to them whether it's Lacy or Austin Martin. Lacy is someone that is equipped with a four pitch mix, two of which already grade at plus-or-better (fastball and slider) with another (changeup) seemingly on its way.

4. Kansas City Royals- Zac Veen, Outfielder, Spruce Creek HS (FL): The Royals go with the fast rising prep school prospect here with Veen. Many believe he's the best high school player in the draft and his vision at the plate looks advanced well beyond his age and allows his violent swing to barrel up balls with ease, leading to the hit tool grading at average while projecting better at peak.

5. Toronto Blue Jays- Emerson Hancock, RHP, Georgia: There's a case to be made that Hancock is the best pitcher in the draft, but he probably is the safest bet in terms of pure starting pitchers. Hancock presents the same four pitch mix as Asa Lacy (fastball, slider, curveball, changeup) with less electricity but more command and polish.

6. Seattle Mariners- Nick Gonzalez, Second Baseman, New Mexico State: Gonzales is one of the more interesting prospects as we head closer to the draft. Folks are skeptical of him due to putting up great numbers against lesser competition. Some think Gonzales won’t be able to stick at second base long term, he has the make up and work ethic being able to keep the elite hit tool he carries at the keystone.

7. Pittsburgh Pirates- Heston Kjerstad, Outfielder, Arkansas: The Pirates are a team that should simply go with the best player available and you can make a case for Kjerstad at this point. He is someone that has a unique, complex left handed swing he brings to the table with double plus raw power who many compare to Philadelphia's Rhys Hoskins.

8. San Diego Padres- Max Meyer, LHP, Minnesota: The Padres are a wild card in this draft considering their farm system is in good shape, so there's no pressure on them to go in a certain direction. Meyer used to be a closer who only started 15 games while at Minnesota presents certain reliever risk due to size and durability concerns, but the question marks are overshadowed by the explosive arsenal Meyer brings to the table.

9. Colorado Rockies- Reid Detmers, LHP, Louisville: This would be a great selection for the Rockies, who badly need pitching in their farm system. The curveball is unspeakably good, which is on all of the time. He pounds the strike zone great and is great at getting swings and misses.

10. Los Angeles Angels- Robert Hassell III, OF, Independence HS (TN): The Angels could go in a number of directions here and they go for the prep player in Hassell. He is someone that could go higher than this due to his pure hitting ability and his bat control.

11. Chicago White Sox- Patrick Bailey, Catcher, North Carolina State: The White Sox are a bit of a wild card with this selection. Bailey is a defense first catcher who's shown great athleticism and a switch hitter that's shown power on both sides with solid tools in front and Bailey brings a special combination of the two.

12. Cincinnati Reds- Austin Hendrick, Outfielder, West Allegheny HS (PA): Hendrick is one of the fast rising prospects as the draft is a week away. Hendrick is perhaps the best power hitting prep player in this draft although there are concerns due to a high number of strikeouts.

13. San Francisco Giants- Cade Cavalli, RHP, Oklahoma: The Giants are an interesting team here with this selection. Cavalli was the ace of the Sooners's staff who people are mixed about. This could be a risky pick due to the flaws he has and injury issues. What makes him intriguing is his ability to strike guys out and his great fastball and a devastating slider.

14. Texas Rangers- Garrett Mitchell, Center Fielder, UCLA: Mitchell is a prospect that is dropping in a lot of mock drafts and could drop further than this on draft night. He is a great athlete and generates a ton of power and speed, but there is risk due to his swing and miss concerns and due to his Type-1 diabetes.

15. Philadelphia Phillies- Tyler Soderstrom, Catcher/Outfielder, Turlock HS (CA): The Phillies could go in a number of directions here with this selection. Soderstrom is one of the best all-around high school bats in the country and could go higher than this since he is very well rounded.

16. Chicago Cubs- Garrett Crochet, LHP, Tennessee: This would be a steal for the Cubs as they land a very good college arm with this selection. Inconsistency and an early season injury is what will probably cost him from going higher than this, but with a plus slider and a developing changeup, the Tennessee product has some of the best raw stuff in this class.

17. Boston Red Sox- Mick Abel, RHP, Jesuit HS (OR): A top prospect who was hurt by the shortened 2020 season falls here to the Red Sox. The righty has a clean, fluid delivery that offers projection and the potential for him to have three above-average pitches. He has all the makings of being a top-of-the-rotation arm.

18. Arizona Diamondbacks- Jared Kelley, RHP, Refugio HS (Texas): The Diamondbacks get themselves a possible steal here with the prep arm in Kelley, who many people think can go in the top fifteen. Many people project Kelley to be a front-line starter and has confidence in his swing-and-miss changeup and displays potential with his slider.

19. New York Mets- Nick Bitsko, RHP, Central Bucks East HS (PA): This pick would make sense for the Mets, who have a recent history of selecting prep arms. Bitsko is someone that can drop out of the first round due to the lack of information due to the shortened season, but he is just as advanced as any prep arm in the pitch feel department.

20. Milwaukee Brewers- Pete-Crow Armstrong, Outfielder, Harvard-Westlake HS (CA): The Brewers go with an upside play here with Armstrong, who could go higher than this. The left-handed-hitting center fielder has five-tool potential and is a prototypical, top-of-the-lineup hitter with the defensive abilities to stick in centerfield.

21. St. Louis Cardinals- Cole Wilcox, RHP, Georgia: Wilcox is one of the more underrated arms in this class and the Cardinals would gladly take him here. Wilcox leans on two plus pitches in the fastball and slider, but he is only a sophomore that doesn't have much starting experience.

22. Washington Nationals- Slade Cecconi, RHP, Miami: The Nationals have been heavily linked to college arms and I have them snagging one here with Cecconi. Many people project Cecconi to be a reliever in the future and his pure stuff measures up against a lot of other college arms.

23. Cleveland Indians- Ed Howard, Shortstop, Mount Carmel HS (IL): The Indians could go in a number of directions here with the selection. Here I have them snagging the talented prep shortstop in Howard, who has ability to make all the plays necessary to stick at shortstop stands out and can seem to cover ground effortlessly without having a plus speed tool.

24. Tampa Bay Rays- Dillon Dingler, Catcher, Ohio State: The Rays are in good shape in terms of their farm system, so there's no pressure on them to make a certain selection. Catchers who can stay behind the plate are hard to find and Dingler is athletic with excellent defensive skills and he could possibly go a few picks earlier.

25. Atlanta Braves- Clayton Beeter, RHP, Texas Tech: The Braves are another team that's in good shape farm system wise so they could go in a number of directions. Beeter is rising up draft boards and could go higher than this due to his big velocity on the fastball and great spin on the out-pitch curveball.

26. Oakland Athletics- Justin Foscue, Second Baseman, Mississippi State: The Athletics are a team that loves taking college players and here I have them taking one with Foscue. He is someone that has a chance to be an impact hitter, but he is limited defensively.

27. Minnesota Twins- Chris McMahon, RHP, Miami: The Twins should be looking at pitching with this selection and they land a solid one here in McMahon. He flashes an exciting three pitch mix that all possess above-average-or-better qualities.

28. New York Yankees- Nick Loftin, Shortstop, Baylor: The Yankees have been heavily linked to college position players in these mock drafts and they take one here with Loftin. He is someone a lot of people feel will go higher than this due to his bat-to-ball skills and his ability to stay up the middle defensively.

29. Los Angeles Dodgers- Bobby Miller, RHP, Louisville: The Dodgers could go in a number of directions here and they're farm system is loaded so there a team that can afford that. Miller could go higher than this or not go in the first round at all and he's someone that is very solid and improved each season in college.