With the MLB Draft less than two weeks away, Baseball America has released its latest mock draft — and it’s stirring up excitement in Detroit. This year’s draft class is deep at the top, featuring a group of similarly ranked prospects rather than a clear-cut favorite like last year’s Paul Skenes, leaving plenty of uncertainty about how the first round will unfold.
The Tigers hold the 24th overall pick, their lowest first-round selection since drafting Alex Faedo at 18th overall in 2017. Under GM Scott Harris, Detroit has leaned heavily on drafting high school talent early, saving money with college players in the middle rounds, then swinging for upside later with more prep prospects. But drafting at 24 limits their signing bonus pool, which could affect their usual approach.
Baseball America’s latest projection has Detroit taking left-handed hitting center fielder Slater de Brun from Summit High School in Oregon. De Brun, listed at 5-foot-10 and 185 pounds, isn’t imposing physically but is praised for his strong contact skills, defense in center field, and plus speed. While he may not project for big-time power, scouts believe his ability to work counts and square up pitches could make him a valuable top-of-the-order presence.
Other names mentioned as possibilities for the Tigers include high school shortstop Kayson Cunningham and third baseman Coy James. Cunningham is a polished defender with an advanced hit tool who might not slip far enough to Detroit’s pick, while James has big raw power but struggled during his senior season and is committed to Ole Miss, making him an overslot candidate for later rounds.
De Brun represents a relatively safe pick among high schoolers, offering a high floor thanks to his contact and defense up the middle — a profile reminiscent of Tigers prospect Kevin McGonigle. If his bat develops average power, he could exceed expectations.
The MLB Draft begins July 13, and while it’s impossible to predict who will still be on the board when Detroit picks, fans should expect more updates as the draft approaches and the Tigers’ strategy becomes clearer.
Tigers Eye High-Floor Prep Star Slater de Brun in Latest MLB Mock Draft
