The Los Angeles Dodgers have consistently been successful not only on the field but also in the MLB Draft. With this year's draft just around the corner, the Dodgers are looking to add more talent to their already impressive farm system. Despite having the seventh-lowest pool money in the league, the Dodgers have a track record of finding gems in the later rounds of the draft.
In the past five seasons, the Dodgers have made some notable first-round draft picks. In 2022, they selected catcher Dalton Rushing with the 40th overall pick. Rushing has been tearing it up in the minors, with 16 home runs, 65 RBIs, and an impressive 1.042 OPS. He is quickly rising through the ranks and could become a key player for the Dodgers in the future.
In 2021, the Dodgers selected left-handed pitcher Maddux Bruns. While Bruns struggled with his command in his first season, he has shown promise this year. Despite these successes, the Dodgers have faced penalties in the past for exceeding the competitive-balance tax threshold. This has resulted in their first-round pick being dropped 10 spots.
However, the Dodgers have not let these setbacks hinder their ability to build a strong farm system. They have consistently been able to find talent and develop players. With the 2023 MLB Draft approaching, the Dodgers will once again have the opportunity to add more promising prospects to their organization. Will they continue their success in the draft and find the next superstar? Only time will tell.
Sources:
- Juan Toribio's Dodgers Beat newsletter
- ESPN
- FiveThirtyEight
- Bleacher Report
- Sports Illustrated