The 2026 MLB Draft is well underway, and the Atlanta Braves have high hopes that they will make the right choices this year. Fans didn't know what to expect, as the Braves in years past have really focused on pitching in the early rounds of the draft. The team went off script in a big way last year, as they took three position players in the first three rounds.
Surely, they would revert back to the pitching focus in 2026. Right? Believe it or not, the Braves subverted expectations again and drafted two college bats in the first round. AJ Gracia was the 9th overall pick out of the University of Virginia, and Carter Beck was taken 26th overall out of Indiana State University.
Braves insider Mark Bowman reported that with those first two selections, Atlanta selected more college outfielders in the first round than they had in the last 61 drafts combined.
With the selections of AJ Gracia and Carter Beck the Braves have taken more college outfielders in the first round today than they had within the previous 61 MLB Drafts combined. Mike Kelly (1991) had been the only previous such selection before today.
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) July 11, 2026
Braves are taking a bit of a risk with their 2026 draft strategy, but the payoff could be huge
There are reasons to be excited about Gracia and Beck, but also some legitimate concerns. That's par for the course in the MLB Draft. However, time will tell us just how good or bad these choices were. The two hitters are known for their abilities to hit well and make consistent contact. However, the concerns lie with their defense.
Beck needs to work on his reads/routes more in center field if he wants to stick there, and there will be time for that. Although his less-than-optimal arm strength may have him more suited for a corner outfield spot in the future.
Gracia has good instincts and route running, but he isn't the fastest, with okay arm strength. He seems destined to play left field once he reaches the big leagues. Both Gracia and Beck have plenty of time to develop and refine their skills before an appropriate judgment can be made. Atlanta responded to their two under-slot picks with three straight talented prep arms.
The future is looking extremely bright for the Braves, and fans should be excited about how well the front office has stockpiled talent in recent years. Hopefully, these moves turn into major impact players in the next few years.
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