2020 MLB Draft Class: A Look At Where The Top Picks Are Now

Hey baseball fanatics! Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit the 2020 MLB draft class. It's been a few years since these young guns were selected, and it's high time we check in and see how their careers are shaping up. We'll be doing a deep dive into the top picks, the sleepers, and everything in between. So, grab your peanuts and cracker jacks, and let's get started! This class was particularly interesting, as it was shortened due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This added a unique layer of challenge for scouts and teams. Many players missed valuable time for evaluation and development. Despite these hurdles, the 2020 draft was still a treasure trove of talent, with several players showing signs of becoming future stars. The path from the draft to the big leagues is rarely straightforward, with many young athletes facing various challenges along the way. Some players have already made a significant impact, while others are still honing their skills in the minor leagues. It's a journey filled with highs and lows, injuries, and the constant pressure to perform. This article will look at the top picks from the 2020 MLB draft, evaluating their progress, and looking ahead to their potential futures. We will also discuss the impact of the pandemic on their development and some of the surprising performances from later-round picks. So, whether you're a die-hard fan or a casual observer, get ready for an exciting journey through the 2020 MLB draft class. Let's find out where these future stars are now! The evaluation of these players is still ongoing, and their potential is far from fully realized. The next few seasons will be crucial in determining who will reach their full potential and become perennial all-stars. The journey through the minor leagues is a grind, and the players who can stay healthy, work hard, and adapt to the challenges they face are the ones who ultimately succeed. It's also important to remember that baseball is a game of adjustments. Prospects who may have struggled early in their careers can often make significant improvements through hard work, coaching, and a willingness to learn. Now, let's explore some of the most notable names from the 2020 MLB draft. Get ready for a thrilling journey into the world of baseball prospects.

The Top Picks: Making Their Mark

Alright, let's get right into it, guys. We're going to check in on the top picks from the 2020 MLB draft. How are they doing? Are they living up to the hype? Let's find out! When a player is selected with the first overall pick, the expectations are sky-high. And sometimes, it can be a lot to handle. The pressure to perform, the media attention, and the constant scrutiny can be overwhelming. Some players thrive under pressure, while others struggle to adapt. The first overall pick often becomes the face of the franchise, and the team's success is often tied to their performance. It's a huge responsibility, and not every player is ready to handle it. The journey through the minor leagues can be a long and challenging one. Players need to develop their skills, adapt to different levels of competition, and overcome various obstacles. But the goal is always the same: to reach the big leagues and make an impact. The development of a top prospect can take several years, and it's essential for teams to be patient and provide them with the necessary support. The players who can stay focused on their goals and remain dedicated to their craft are usually the ones who eventually succeed. We will look at some of the most prominent players selected at the top of the draft. Let's start with the first overall pick. This position is a coveted spot, and the player selected here often has a huge impact on their team's future. The player is usually a highly-touted prospect, with the potential to become a superstar. But it's not always a smooth road to the big leagues. We will examine the progress of the first overall pick, the challenges they have faced, and their potential for the future. We'll also be taking a peek at some of the other top picks, seeing how their careers are progressing. Some players have already made their big league debut, while others are still grinding it out in the minors. The goal is to see how these players are performing and whether they are meeting the expectations set for them. So, buckle up, and let's check in with the top picks from the 2020 MLB draft.

1. Spencer Torkelson (Detroit Tigers)

Selected with the first overall pick, the pressure was immediately on Spencer Torkelson. He was a power-hitting first baseman out of Arizona State, and the Tigers hoped he would be the cornerstone of their rebuild. Torkelson, from the moment he was drafted, was expected to transform the Tigers' offense. His exceptional power and consistent hitting ability made him a highly sought-after prospect. Torkelson's journey to the big leagues began in the minor leagues, where he had to hone his skills and get used to professional baseball. He made his MLB debut in 2022. He's had his ups and downs. The ability to make adjustments is crucial for any player, and Torkelson has had to do just that. He has shown glimpses of his potential. The Tigers' fans are hoping he will become a key player for their franchise. He's still young, so there's plenty of time for him to develop into the superstar he was projected to be. The transition from college baseball to the pros can be challenging. Torkelson has faced several obstacles on his journey to the majors. These challenges included the learning curve of professional baseball, the adjustment to playing every day, and the pressure of meeting expectations. He had to learn how to deal with adversity and stay focused on his goals. He has shown flashes of brilliance, and the Tigers hope he can develop into a key player for their franchise. He needs to continue working hard to reach his full potential. The Tigers are hopeful that with the right coaching and development, Torkelson will become the player they believe he can be.

2. Heston Kjerstad (Baltimore Orioles)

Drafted second overall by the Baltimore Orioles, outfielder Heston Kjerstad also carried high expectations. Kjerstad was a highly-rated college hitter, known for his ability to hit for average and power. Unfortunately, his professional career got off to a difficult start. He was diagnosed with myocarditis, a heart condition, which sidelined him for the entire 2020 season. After recovering from myocarditis, Kjerstad continued his development in the minor leagues. His journey was filled with challenges, but he has shown resilience. He made his MLB debut in 2023, and although he hasn't yet become a regular starter, he's showing signs of becoming a solid player. Kjerstad's path to the majors was not easy. He faced a series of setbacks, but he never gave up on his dream of playing in the big leagues. His ability to overcome adversity has made him a fan favorite. The Orioles have high hopes for Kjerstad. He has the potential to become a key player for their franchise. Kjerstad has the tools to be a successful player. The Orioles are banking on his development. He will be an integral part of their future. He's a great example of perseverance and determination. The Orioles are hoping he can reach his full potential.

3. Max Meyer (Miami Marlins)

The Miami Marlins selected Max Meyer, a right-handed pitcher, with the third overall pick. Meyer was a highly-rated pitching prospect out of the University of Minnesota. He showed impressive stuff, including a fastball, slider, and changeup. Meyer made his MLB debut in 2022, but unfortunately, he suffered a season-ending injury that required Tommy John surgery. This was a devastating setback for both Meyer and the Marlins. Recovering from Tommy John surgery is a long and arduous process, and it can be a major challenge for any pitcher. Meyer's ability to bounce back from such a serious injury is a testament to his character and determination. The Marlins are hopeful he will return to form. The surgery sidelined him for the entire 2023 season. He's expected to make his return sometime in 2024. The Marlins are eager to see what he can do on the mound. When he returns, Meyer will be looking to re-establish himself as a key member of the Marlins' rotation. His future in the big leagues will depend on his recovery and his ability to regain the form that made him a top pick in the 2020 MLB draft.

The Sleepers and Surprises

Okay, let's switch gears and talk about some of the **