The Minnesota Twins have selected Walker Jenkins, a standout high school baseball player from South Brunswick, with the No. 5 overall pick in the 2023 MLB Draft. Jenkins, an 18-year-old center fielder, has impressed scouts with his swing and his size and speed on the field. He solidified his high school career with an impressive senior season, including an area-high 32 walks. Jenkins becomes the third player from the Wilmington area in the past six years to be chosen on the first day of the draft, following in the footsteps of Blake Walston and MacKenzie Gore.
Jenkins' high school career has been remarkable, even from the start. After sitting out his freshman season due to hip surgery, he excelled in swimming and quickly made an impact on the baseball field as a sophomore. By his junior year, Jenkins had caught the attention of scouts across the country with impressive stats and performance.
The Twins' decision to select Jenkins came after the top four players on their draft board were chosen by other teams. Despite speculation that the Twins may go for a college player with more experience, they went with Jenkins for his talent and power potential. Scouts compare him to a young Larry Walker and see him as an athletic right fielder with great hitting ability.
The Twins now have an opportunity to strengthen their farm system with three of the first 49 picks in the draft. Jenkins will join the organization and could challenge for the top prospect spot. The Twins have until July 25 to sign their draft picks.