The 2013 MLB draft produced a stellar crop of talent, headlined by superstars like Cody Bellinger, Kris Bryant, and Aaron Judge. With the benefit of hindsight, how would the first round shake out if teams could re-draft knowing each player’s career trajectory? This re-draft analyzes the top picks and explores who would be selected first overall.
A Look Back at the Original Top Picks
The original draft saw Mark Appel selected first overall by the Houston Astros, a pick that ultimately didn’t pan out as Appel never reached the majors. Kris Bryant went second to the Chicago Cubs, proving to be a pivotal player in their 2016 World Series victory. Aaron Judge, a late first-round pick by the New York Yankees, blossomed into a power-hitting phenomenon. Cody Bellinger, surprisingly drafted in the fourth round by the Los Angeles Dodgers, emerged as an MVP. This re-draft examines how their careers have unfolded and where they would land knowing their current successes.
Bellinger, Judge, or Bryant: Who’s No. 1?
Alt: Cody Bellinger, Kris Bryant, and Aaron Judge headline the 2013 MLB re-draft.
Choosing the top pick in this re-draft is a challenging task. Bellinger’s MVP award and offensive prowess make him a strong contender. Judge’s prodigious power and captivating rookie season are equally compelling arguments for the top spot. Bryant’s consistent performance and crucial role in a championship team add another layer to the debate. While each player boasts impressive accolades, subtle differences in their career paths and potential for future success must be considered.
Analyzing the Top Three Contenders
Alt: Cody Bellinger’s MVP performance makes him a top contender in the 2013 MLB re-draft.
Bellinger’s combination of power, speed, and defense makes him an incredibly valuable asset. However, his recent struggles raise questions about consistency. Judge’s raw power is undeniable, but injury concerns linger. Bryant, while consistently good, may lack the peak performance levels of the other two. This re-draft attempts to weigh these factors and determine the optimal first overall selection.
Alt: Kris Bryant’s consistent performance and World Series contributions are key factors in the re-draft.
Beyond the Top Three: Hidden Gems and Late Bloomers
This re-draft doesn’t solely focus on the superstars. Players like Jeff McNeil, Austin Meadows, and Mitch Garver, all drafted significantly later than their talent warranted, are prime examples of overlooked potential. This re-draft highlights these late-round steals and examines how their careers would have unfolded if drafted according to their true value. It also considers pitchers like Jon Gray and Sean Manaea, who have quietly established themselves as reliable starters.
Alt: Aaron Judge’s impressive power makes him a strong candidate for the first overall pick in the re-draft.
Re-Drafting the First Round: A New Order
With the benefit of hindsight, the first round of the 2013 MLB draft takes on a dramatically different shape. This re-draft projects a new order based on career performance, acknowledging both early success and long-term potential. The revised draft order reveals a fascinating alternative reality of the 2013 draft class.
Conclusion: Re-Writing Baseball History
Re-drafting past drafts is a speculative exercise, but it offers valuable insights into player development, scouting, and the unpredictable nature of baseball. This re-draft of the 2013 MLB draft aims to provide a comprehensive and engaging analysis of one of baseball’s most talented draft classes, ultimately offering a compelling reimagining of baseball history.
