2025 MLB Draft Day 2 Results – Complete Coverage
Undrafted Gems: Unpacking Baseball’s Late-Round Draft Steals
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the MLB Draft is a thrilling spectacle, but beyond the early-round fanfare lie hidden treasures – players who, with the right progress, can become significant contributors. This year’s draft class is no exception,with several intriguing prospects slipping into the later rounds,offering teams a chance to snag potential stars at a bargain. From power-hitting infielders to pitchers with eye-popping spin rates, these late-round picks are poised to make their mark.
The All-Around Talent: A Look at the top Late-Round Prospects
While the spotlight frequently enough shines brightest on the top picks, the true art of team building in baseball often lies in identifying and developing talent further down the draft board. This year, several players who might have been overlooked in earlier rounds possess the tools and potential to defy expectations.
Emerging stars: Who to Watch in the Later Rounds
The beauty of the MLB Draft is its unpredictability. Prospects who might not have the most polished profiles coming out of college or high school can blossom with the right coaching and opportunity. Here’s a closer look at some of the players who could prove to be the steals of the draft:
Maximus Martin, SS, Kansas State
A transfer from Georgia State, Martin stepped into a prominent role for Kansas state, replacing a highly touted draft pick. His performance was nothing short of impressive, slashing .320/.420/.612 with 14 home runs. Martin’s standout tool is his plus raw power, a highly coveted asset in today’s game. While he’s currently listed as a shortstop, his future defensive home might be at second base or in the outfield, showcasing his versatility.His draft position at Pick 13 (298th overall) by the Red Sox suggests teams recognized his significant upside.
Brady Counsell, SS, Kansas
The son of MLB manager Craig Counsell, Brady Counsell brings a strong baseball pedigree to the diamond.He’ll be staying in the National League, joining the Arizona Diamondbacks. Playing primarily at third base for the Kansas Jayhawks, Counsell achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first player in program history to earn a Rawlings Gold Glove award.The Diamondbacks announced him as a shortstop,indicating a belief in his defensive capabilities and potential to move up the defensive spectrum. As a senior transfer from Minnesota, he also possesses decent raw power, making him an intriguing late-round pick at Pick 18 (303rd overall).
Jake McCutcheon, 2B, Missouri State
McCutcheon, ranked No. 228 prior to the draft, offers a compelling package of skills for the Miami Marlins, who selected him at Pick 3 (288th overall). Batting from the left side, he demonstrates excellent timing at the plate, even with a leg kick in his swing. His combination of discerning swing decisions and impressive exit velocities earned him an above-average hit-tool grade before the draft. While he saw action primarily in the outfield this spring, his announcement at second base suggests a potential defensive fit that could unlock his offensive potential.
Ryan Prager, LHP, Texas A&M
Prager was a key contributor to the texas A&M Aggies’ College World Series runner-up squad in 2024, earning him a third-round selection by the Angels. However, he opted not to sign and experienced a dip in his performance and stuff in the 2025 season. Despite this,the Guardians saw enough potential to select him at Pick 27 (282nd overall). His fastball, which averaged around 88 mph this spring, still possesses good life, and his upper-70s changeup is considered his best pitch. his journey highlights the inherent risks and rewards of drafting college arms.
Reid Worley,RHP,Cherokee (Ga.) HS
Worley stands out for his elite spin rates, frequently exceeding 3,000 rpm at the Draft Combine.His breaking ball grip is particularly noteworthy, a unique technique that has garnered attention.He is committed to Kennesaw State. The Giants recognized his potential, selecting him at Pick 11 (266th overall), a testament to his raw pitching talent and the