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The Athletics have had an eye for talent in the first round of the MLB Draft. Looking back, they have drafted players like Sonny Gray, Matt Olson, Matt Chapman, Tyler Soderstrom, Jacob Wilson, and Nick Kurtz over the years.
So, the fanbase should feel pretty good about the upcoming draft. They have been awarded the No. 8 overall pick later this summer, and there's sure to be a ton of game-changers to be drafted.
Last year, they selected Florida State pitcher Jamie Arnold 11th overall, and they could definitely take another arm this year. Or, they could go after one of the many position players that are expected to be taken in the first round.
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Latest mock draft sends rising SEC shortstop to the Athletics
Over the last few years, the A's have drafted college players. The last prep player they took was back in 2021 when they took Maxwell Muncy 25th overall.
So, looking at college players, there is one that has been sticking out as of late. That is Kentucky shortstop Tyler Bell, who made up for lost time after suffering a shoulder injury on Opening Day.
His numbers are back to where they need to be at the plate, and with that, Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter has the A's taking him with the No. 8 pick.
"Bell suffered a shoulder injury on Opening Day, and it sapped some of his power early in the spring once he returned. However, an uptick in exit velocity and more frequent loft in his swing has given him some late helium. He wrapped up his sophomore campaign with a .343/.510/.608 line and 19 extra-base hits."
Bell is a switch-hitter who is efficient on both sides of the plate. He also has all the ingredients to stick at shortstop at the next level, and could be an excellent pick for the A's.
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