5. Catcher
Notable Depth:
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William Contreras – MLB
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Alex Jackson – AAA
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Shea Langeliers – AA
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Logan Brown – A+
While the Braves will certainly almost take a catcher or two at some point in this draft, you could actually make the argument that this is Atlanta’s least need in the upper rounds. With the future big-league catching duo of Contreras and Langeliers, the Braves talent and depth at the position for the foreseeable future is almost certain.
However, there are a few can’t-miss catchers available in the first round this year, in particular Georgia native Harry Ford. While players such as Ford, who essentially grew-up in the Braves backyard, will be an intriguing option should he fall to Atlanta, the Braves should wait a little in this draft before selecting a backstop.
4. Right-Handed Pitcher
Notable Depth:
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Mike Soroka – MLB
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Ian Anderson – MLB
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Huascar Ynoa – MLB
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Bryse Wilson – MLB
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Kyle Wright- AAA
While recent mock drafts have had Atlanta selecting a right-hander in the rirst round, it isn’t quite as big of a need as you’d think. Now, yes, stockpiling arms will always happen through the draft, but this future Braves pitching staff has numerous right-handers headlined by Soroka, Anderson, and more.
When looking at the depth of this group as well, you also have to remember numerous other prospects that could play a role going forward including Jasseel De La Cruz, Freddy Tarnok, Bryce Elder, and more. While the quantity of right-handed arms could always change, the depth this position group has going forward is evident for a rotation that is already young.