The Pittsburgh Pirates kicked off the 2023 MLB Draft by selecting LSU pitcher Paul Skenes as the No. 1 pick. Skenes is known for his imposing figure and upper-90s velocity, with a 48% strikeout rate against SEC hitters. However, there are concerns about his fastball shape and its minimal separation between induced vertical break and horizontal break, which could affect his performance.

The draft, which is being held in Seattle during the MLB All-Star break, will continue for three days, spanning 20 rounds. CBS Sports is tracking every selection in every round, including analysis of every first-round choice.

The Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets will have their first-round picks pushed back due to clearing competitive-balance tax thresholds last year. The Mets' first pick will be No. 32, while the Dodgers' first pick will be No. 36.

In other draft news, the Cleveland Guardians selected high school catcher Ralphy Velazquez from Huntington Beach High in California with the No. 23 overall pick. Velazquez is known for his power at the plate and could potentially find a spot in the middle of a major league lineup. The Guardians have returned to their strategy of selecting top high school talent in the first round after focusing on college players in the past two drafts. Velazquez has drawn comparisons to Philadelphia Phillies slugger Kyle Schwarber for his lack of defensive tools behind the plate but strong presence in the batter's box.

Overall, the 2023 MLB Draft promises to be an exciting event with top prospects being chosen by their respective teams.