The Rule 5 draft marks the end of this year’s Virtual Winter Meetings. Those unfamiliar with how the draft works can check out MLBTR’s full primer on the event here, but the short version is that teams with open 40-man roster spots can select a player with four to five years of pro experience from other organizations if said player hasn’t been given a spot on the 40-man roster. Players who signed at 18 years of age or younger but have five years of experience can be selected, as can players signed at 19 or older who have four years of experience. Each selection costs $100K, but it’s not mandatory for teams to make picks. Clubs must carry chosen players on their active rosters (or the major league injured list) throughout the entire 2021 season. Otherwise, the player must be placed on waivers; if no other team steps into the Rule 5 rights, the player is offered back to his original club.
This year’s draft brings more uncertainty than usual as teams keep a close eye on their change purses following large-scale revenue losses due to the pandemic. What’s more, the players available in this year’s draft haven’t played organized baseball in more than a year because of the cancellation of the minor league season.
You can find Baseball America’s preview of the festivities right here (subscription required). The Rule 5 order is based on the reverse order of last season’s standings. Here are this year’s results:
First Round
1. Pittsburgh Pirates: Jose Soriano (Angels)
2. Texas Rangers: Brett de Geus (Dodgers)
3. Detroit Tigers: Akil Baddoo (Twins)
4. Boston Red Sox: Garrett Whitlock (Yankees)
5. Baltimore Orioles: Mac Sceroler (Reds)
6. Arizona Diamondbacks: Zach Pop (Royals)
7. Kansas City Royals: Pass
8. Colorado Rockies: Jordan Sheffield (Dodgers)
9. Los Angeles Angels: Jose Alberto Rivera (Astros)
10. New York Mets: Luis Oviedo (Indians), traded to Pirates for cash considerations, tweets MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo
11. Washington Nationals: Pass
12. Seattle Mariners: Will Vest (Tigers)
13. Philadelphia Phillies: Kyle Holder (Yankees)
14. San Francisco Giants: Dedniel Nunez (Mets)
15. Houston Astros: Pass
16. Milwaukee Brewers: Pass
17. Miami Marlins: Paul Campbell (Rays)
18. Cincinnati Reds: Pass
19. St. Louis Cardinals: Pass
20. Toronto Blue Jays: No 40-man roster space
21. New York Yankees: Pass
22. Chicago Cubs: Gray Fenter (Orioles)
23. Chicago White Sox: Pass
24. Cleveland Indians: Trevor Stephan (Yankees)
25. Atlanta Braves: Pass
26. Oakland Athletics: Ka’ai Tom (Indians)
27. Minnesota Twins: Pass
28. San Diego Padres: No 40-man roster space
29. Tampa Bay Rays: Pass
30. Los Angeles Dodgers: Pass
Second Round
5. Baltimore Orioles: Tyler Wells (Twins)
26. Oakland Athletics: Dany Jimenez (Blue Jays)
The full results, including the minor league phase, can be found here.
As a Twins fan…I bid ado Akil
I’m excited to see him as a Tiger.. but, I’m really surprised/disappointed they didn’t go Whitlock. Good luck Will Vest!
Now it’s time to get: Casali, Dahl, E. Rosario, C. Hernandez, and Cron… Just to name a few lol
As a Twins fan… I’m really looking forward to seeing Pass play.
Looks like a number of teams were in for him.
I hear he’s a pitch-to-contact strike thrower with a nice sinker.
Phillies got their SS lol
27 year old rookie next year. Late bloomer?
He is a defensive stud and Joe G knows him. I was hoping he would get a look last year when Lemahieu got hurt
Look at Mike Yastrzemski. He was what 29 his rookie season? Still managed to make this year’s All-MLB 2nd team. And guess who was on the first team— Mike Trout, Mookie Betts, and Juan Soto
I like Yastrzemski. Saw him play here in Buffalo a couple of years ago. Good all around player.
knowing how this team uses the draft there’s still a good chance they are trading him.
Holder’s got glove, man. He was lauded as the “best defensive player in the draft” back in…jeeez, must be ’14, uh? But his hitting continues to be an issue.
So.
Anyway, perhaps they intend to use in him utility role? See what Philly can do with him. Could be a contributor. Not a bad Rule V pickup.
its worth noting that utility R5 guys tend to stick around the longest on rosters. look at Machin and Arauz last year. few expected them to be among the few that last, but they did, and the O’s even went on a run while carrying him. very possible this is Michael Martinez part deux.
Good point.
Holder is also fairly polished for a Rule V pick, as well. & a very good athlete. He played hoops in college, too.
Whenever you lose a guy like this it kinda sucks. He’s certainly an interesting player with some talent. At the same time, it’s cool seeing him move somewhere he may have a better chance. I wish him luck & hope he wins a mantel full of Gold Gloves, man.
You guys did about as well as you could have imo.
For some reason the Yankees like Tyler Wade more than him. He never was going to get a chance,
No, sir. He was not.
I – personally – do *not* understand the infatuation with Wade.
Wade over Holder more than likely because he can run and believe it or not his bat has played better in the minors. Holder is awful at the plate, zero pop in that bat
Plus Wade can also play the outfield.
Rangers got exactly who I wanted them to. now they have added a pretty good arm to their very good young bullpen.
I knew this was gonna happen when he was left off the protected list =\
I thought for sure the Pirates would take him… Very surprised they went with Soriano… guess they really wanted someone with a chance to start
This rule 5 pick is a definite game changer! World Series bound!
Yeah that was a great selection
Ka’ai Tom might be a sneaky good add for the A’s. While he’s an older prospect, he recently had a strong AAA season in 2019. I could see him getting a backup outfielder gig in Oakland if they know what they have in him.
A’s are good with sneaky-good adds.
I liked Tom last cycle.
A’s got their Grossman replacement, once AGAIN cheaping out (Joc Pederson gets them to the playoffs, this guy does not).
The A’s will always cheap out. It is nice to know some things never change.
The A’s should move to a city that better supports them!
….Rather than being the Bay Area #2 team……
In all fairness, Ka’ai looks like a great pick. Did outstanding at Double-A and Triple-A in 2019 while hitting for some power and can steal a few bases. He also draws a lot of walks. He’s 26 and has experience at the minor league’s highest level.
I can also close my eyes and swing as hard as I can, and occasionally I’ll hit it, just like Pederson. So why not pay me?
How’s your outfield defense?
No, you 100% definitely can not do just like Joc Pederson does, you are on an online comments section, he’s a World Champion, All-Star ballplayer with a lifetime OPS of .806, which is very good.
While it’s not any official counting stat, Joc and Vlad put on quite a final round of a recent joe run derby. It was one of the better ones I can recall.
*home* run
You’d be lucky to get a foul tip.
Ya’all got a case of mistaken identity…
Ka’ai is going to be the bat boy… !!
I agree. In fact, given how bad Cleveland’s outfield has been, it’s kind of surprising that they weren’t willing to give him an opportunity.
Kolten Wong is also Hawaiian, I’m assuming adding Ka’ai might help Wong look in the A’s direction.
@Stevil I actually fully expected them to call him up after they demoted Mercado and D Santana went missing in the outfield, but I guess they prefer mediocrity
Jawinks: finally someone picks an older guy out of
AAA with good numbers…..
*ahem*Mark Payton*ahem*
Dany Jimenez has some MLB experience, how often do players with MLB experience go in the Rule 5 draft?
His only MLB experience came in 2020, when there was no minors – this is an exception here.
He was a rule 5 pick as well so he had to be in the majors.
Very true, he was returned to the Blue Jays, who lost him again. Would be funny if the A’s do the same thing this year so he gets lost to R5 twice but still somehow makes the Blue Jays.
Now if he clears waivers and is returned to the Blue Jays he has the right to become a free agent so it wouldn’t be surprising if his time in the organization is done unless he re-signs.
see, I ask a dumb question and get soke rrally great answers. Thanks for the info.
its rare but it happens. Josh Rutledge, Deolis Guerra, Shane Victorino. (second time) typically once every few years on average.
Weirdest example i can give you is in the 2004 Rule 5 draft the Phillies draftee Chris Gomez from the Orioles. Gomez at the time was a 33 year old 12 year MLB veteran who had just signed a minor league contract with the Orioles and was not on the 40 man roster which made him eligible for the draft. The Phillies choose him and a week later the Orioles bought his rights back
wow!
that’s sorta close to Rutledge’s scenario
surprised there were no takers on Andy Ibanez… really big offense numbers… not the best defensive 2b but good hit and power tools.
yeah, dont see why someone wouldn’t. surpsied no one took David Parkinson. then again, no one took Zack Brown twice now so that goes to show how hard this is to predict.
Pirates selection is interesting. I thought they were going to take Zach Pop, but Soriano seems fine. He got a lot of strikeouts in 2019 and doesn’t allow home runs, but that control might be an issue. Still, no risk. This is essentially trying to find a diamond in the rough.
he has barely played above rookie ball
I mean yea, but so do a lot of these players. I’m not really expecting much like most Rule 5 draft picks, but still. No risk and you might find something. Seems like Cherington likes getting talent and potential more than where they are in the minor league system.
If anything, 2020 taught us that a great many players than we originally thought actually can go straight into MLB.
The only players who “need” minor league seasoning are either low baseball IQ types, or physically-immature types. One thing I’d like to see the MLBPA rectify is how so many players waste their time in the minors while a terrible veteran steals playing time by batting .085 or whatever until the team can’t stand it anymore and cuts him, and finally brings up the superior player. It’s a scourge of the game and rarely spoken about, because a lot of older “expert” types seem to love to stick to “every drafted player MUST play 4 years in the minors” outdated train of thought, but 2020 was the proof we needed that plenty of guys are ready when called, no matter what pro experience they have, so we should stop viewing every prospect as a long term minors project.
it happens… Rangers got someone who had quite a bit of major league experience a few years back. he was an OF the converted to pitcher… can’t seem to remember his name though
Anthony Gose?
Soriano also had Tommy John in 2019. Likely won’t make majors.
He had it early on in 2020, in Feburary. He’ll probably be back mid-to-late 2021.
That’s a plus. They can keep him on the IL for half the season…..
yeah, stashability surely played a role here
Which means they stash him on injured list for the season and see what he can do in 2021.
I like the Pirates picks. Two very young arms with great stuff. Just needs harness. I actually wanted Speas but ok with who they got.
Sheffield seems like a guy who could either be outstanding, or awful. Has the stuff, but can’t seem to get it over the plate consistently.
How do you like the Soriano pick?
Texas’ fans like the de Geus pickup.
Seems like Cherington likes taking the high-ceiling approach in acquiring players and this was no different. Has some real talent but hasn’t played much above Rookie-ball and has some control issues. He can touch triple-digits and averages out in the 92-97 MPH range with a plus curveball. His change-up is still a WIP but he could be a solid bullpen piece if he hones in on those two pitches. Only time will tell though. I like what Oscar Marin was able to do last year with the Bucs’ pitchers so he might be a nice diamond in the rough.
I’d absolutely love the de Geus pickup if he was a starter, but they measure him out as a reliever since he’s only thrown 60 innings each season he’s played. I’m skeptical of how his stuff would play in the pen. Low to mid 90’s FB, good curveball, and a less controlled slider but it has amazing break. They say he’s more of a ground ball pitcher as well, but he also has a pretty good K rate.(K/9 of 10.5 in 19′).
I’m trying to think of a comp for him, I know there has to be one, but I can’t put my finger on it. Low-mid 90’s FB, good curveball with depth, half-erratic slider with great break. Ground ball pitcher with a good K rate as well. And a reliever…. He’s definatley unique.
Yes very exciting. Rangers are gonna have some intriguing arms for the bp come ST. Outside of the usual guys: Warren, Gatto, de Geus
Gatto is not very good, none of these guys are hence why the are in rule 5….if your hoping for magic in the bottle goodluck.
The link to Baseball America never works and I have a subscription! I have no trouble logging on to the website…..
Red Sox just picked up a good DH prospects in the minor league phase.
Dalton – …..and a good starter in mlb phase….
He was hitting 94 mph on the fast ball in August in video, so they expect he should be ready by spring trading after TJ surgery.
Jordan Sheffield at Coors??? He will be back with the Dodgers by June.
April*
If Zach Pop doesn’t make the show it will be a shame! Of course it would’ve been more perfect if he was a hitter…..
Congratulations Kyle Holder!
Yeah I wanted him called up last year but he deserves a chance
Red Sox picked up a good DH prospect
Call me crazy but, I don’t think a RHP can be classified as a “good DH prospect.”
I’m talking about in the minor league section.
Dalton – soxprospect.com had video of Whitlock from August throwing 94 mph fastballs. He looks like he has recovered from TJ….will probably stick on mlb roster in long relief/spot starter.
MLB Phase
1) Whitlock- RHP (from NYY)
Minor League Phase
1) Reed – 1B (from Tex)
2) Orr – RHP (from NYY)
Thanks NYY
Surprised Tirso Ornelas wasn’t taken
Disappointed Stephan was taken. Holder doesn’t have a chance to make the Yankees. Wish him luck elsewhere. Don’t know much about Whitlock
Same here for holder wish him well and he’ll have a better shot at the big leagues in philly. Doubt he becomes a starter but should be a good bench piece eventually. Hopefully he can produce for them. Whitlock and Stephan will probably end up being bullpen arms. Wish them all well
Not sure what that has to do with my comment but ok.
I assume every career minor leaguer hopes to hear their name called.
Zach Pop was chosen from the Orioles’ organization, not the Royals.
Yep. Went to Baltimore in the Manny Machado trade.
Beat me to it
Seriously! Why the heck would the Royals pass?!
Nice Grab by the Cubs with Gray Fenter. Lots of upside there, has not pitched above A Ball so he will likely be stashed in the bullpen next season which could end up being his long term role.
His 2019 numbers were pretty darn good. I think right now he’s the Cubs number 3 starter, only kind of joking. The cubs have a lot to holes to fill while apparently shedding even more money.
Interesting pick by Tigers. Baddoo was a 2nd round pick of Twins in ‘16. He had a terrific ‘18 season but slumped terribly in ‘19 ending up with Tommy John surgery as an outfielder which I’m assuming the Tigers are blaming for his poor showing. So…. if this kid is 100% now and ready to be his 2018 self he could turn out to be another Victor Reyes type Rule 5 pick. Tigers waited Reyes out and he’s on the cusp of being a serious ML’er. My only concern is Tigers are clearly signaling that they are not interested in being much better this year. If Baddoo sticks with the big club out of ST I think guys like Christin Stewart need to be concerned.
I couldn’t agree more. What this means for Derek Hill is huge, as well! This will certainly be a prove me year for quite a few. It seems like the confidence in Woodrow, Stokes, and Robson is next to nil.
My choice would’ve been Garrett Whitlock or Ka’ai Tom.
Poetic that from the Twins came both the Bad and Good (Niko).
Sorry to his scout pops whom I know, but Derek Hill has not stated a case for his likelihood of becoming a Tiger contributor. Enough time has passed, although I ardently root for him. Detroit isn’t good enough to give up on OF’s like him or Daz Cameron yet, But signs of what might not pan out are there. The Tiger development track record is also there for anyone to pity.
Christin Stewart shows no signs of being a plus player, either. Don’t need a DH-only who can’t hit. Robson? Cam Gibson?
I think their impact minor league OF talent is 2023-2024 away. There’s a prime audition spot for Baddoo to exploit right now before Greene and Meadows arrive.
Jacoby Jones is like Tatis Jr. in that both inevitably will get hurt and miss time. They play like wild stallions, and with their talent it is a thrill to see. I hope they can keep that up for many more seasons.
But the Tigers need OF bodies as a direct result. I hope Akil is a steal.
.
I forgot about Gibson. Honestly, I like what I’ve seen from Woodrow and Robson. Why haven’t they gotten any reps? They got some guys who can get on base, but refuse to give them the time of day. Greiner has been flat out bad, but is still slated in as starting catcher for 21. Why not give Kade Scivicque a shot?! Pinero is another one
And don’t forget Cruz and deLa Campos.
You are right about ‘23 at the earliest for a serious Tiger OF that could, remotely, be discussed in the same breath as that of Kaline, Horton, Northrop and Stanley.
Idk, what am I missing?
Baseball needs new leadership more than ever. Someone who can take the pasttime brand into 2020 and beyond. Compared to the NBA and NFL free agency periods, this has been a snoozer. Those leagues hold fans attentions year-round.
Those 2 sports mentioned might hold attention year round but much of it is negative for things not related to either sport.
I really wish the Pirates were able to pass Samuel Reyes through the draft. Was selected by the Cubs in the minor league phase. I think he can be a pretty good relief pitcher in the near future.
Any intel on him? Cubs guy.
I actually completely forgot the meetings were going on this week….
Not mentioned is the Yankees taking RHP Reggie McClain from the Phillies in the minor league phase. McClain has some Major League experience. I’m not sure if there are any gamers here who may find that useful
Braxton Lee was also selected in the 2018 draft I believe after playing with the Marlins. little less common then ML phase double selections, but not unheard of.
Can’t remember if I ever saw this many players picked or maybe I just didn’t pay attention
Good to see the Mets using the Rule 5 draft to get some cash from Pirates. Levels the playing field a bit, and maybe now the Mets can afford to sign someone!
I wonder how many players have been drafted in the MLB Rule 5 draft more than once? Poor Dany Jimenez.
Shane Victorino, for one.
While true that Rule 5 format and this one are entirely different.
Not really a relevant comparison
These teams must know something we don’t about Omar Estevez. I thought he would go fairly high in the draft… he didn’t lol.
biggest question here – why did the Mets leave La Tortuga’s brother exposed in the AAA phase?
I mean he’s just one of the countless good Latino prospects in the DSL and Rookie ball and he just happens to be Willians brother. Not a gigantic loss
I thought for sure Kevin Smith and Logan Warmoth were going to be gone from the Jays. Guess they did know what they were doing.
I’m sad, I liked pop and fenter a lot. Good luck to them in their new orgs but I’ll miss y’all
Oviedo is an interesting one to watch. still raw but terribly talented and quite young. i think Stephan, Whitlock, and Jimenez are nice adds too, and a few clubs got solid players in the AAA phase. (Vince Fernandez, La Tortuga’s brother, etc)
Angels have 34 on the 40 man and a dearth of pitching prospects. Not sure why he was unprotected.
That said it looks like we added an immediate bullpen piece.
MLB.com ranked him as their 13th best prospect in spite of the TJS. you don’t just let prospects like that stay exposed.
Exactly.
How does the minor league phase work?
i think the organization gets a certain number of AAA roster spots a la the ML phase with 40 man roster spots. i dont believe there is a requirement to play at a certain level though.
Tigers pick up an OF prospect in Baddoo and lose a pitcher that was way down their pitching prospect list. They send $100k to the Twins and receive the same from the Mariners. It’s just a trade.
If Baddoo doesn’t make it they can actually make $50k ( woo hoo!!) if the Twins want him back. They don’t need Vest back either way.
The Yankees didn’t pick
Yoel Yanqui!!??
What’s wrong with this
world!!??
Really like the Paul Campbell pick up by Miami. Dude can be sneaky good if he puts it together.
The Rangers picked a pitcher from the Dodgers who has never thrown a pitch above Class A ball. What’s the strategy here? He may have a future but he is not MLB ready.
to be fair, the lack of a 2020 season clouds things some. he would have likely played at a higher level this year, and MLB.com pegged hia ETA at 2021, but said it was feasible that he would make the Majors last year, so he’s not terribly far off.
Like the SFG AAA pick, developing power hitting OF….
baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=fer…
There were virtual winter meetings?
Zach Pop (Royals)????
You mean Orioles?
Great job by the Orioles losing Zach Pop so we can keep the boat anchor, Chris Davis, on our 40 man roster. Absolutely brilliant.