Tigers eye high school power bat for 2026 draft

The Detroit Tigers are slated to pick 22nd overall in the upcoming 2026 MLB Draft, a position offering opportunities to secure promising talent. Recent projections suggest the team may focus on high school prospects, a trend they've favored previously. This strategy points towards potentially selecting a player with a high ceiling.

Among the intriguing prospects, Kevin Roberts Jr. from Jackson Prep has emerged as a strong candidate. Possessing a significant physical frame and impressive bat speed, Roberts Jr. is viewed as having one of the highest offensive potentials in his draft class. However, his offensive approach is considered unrefined, presenting a "boom-or-bust" scenario for teams.

Despite the developmental questions, Roberts Jr. has the capability to become a 30-homer, 30-stolen base center fielder if his skills fully develop. He also offers defensive versatility, with the potential to play shortstop in addition to the outfield. Roberts Jr. has committed to play college baseball at the University of Florida.