The 2026 MLB Draft is in the books, and the question on everyone's mind is: Who will be the first to reach the big leagues? While timelines can vary, the 2024 draft class provides some insight, as six players have already made their MLB debut within a year of being selected. In this article, we'll take a closer look at four prospects who are expected to make a swift ascent to the majors, according to MLB Pipeline experts Jim Callis and Jonathan Mayo.
Cole Carlon, LHP, Blue Jays
Cole Carlon, a 6-foot-5 left-hander from Arizona, was ranked as the second-best college lefty in the class. His strengths lie in his double-plus slider and workhorse frame. While he transitioned to starting pitching this spring, his junior season was impressive. Mayo believes the Blue Jays, who were close to winning the World Series last year, will develop Carlon as a starter. The team's ability to 'hit the reset' and Carlon's elite slider, which Mayo describes as 'the best in the entire class,' make him a strong contender for a quick promotion to the big leagues.
Jackson Flora, RHP, Giants
Jackson Flora, a 6-foot-5 right-hander from UC Santa Barbara, is the latest potential ace to emerge from the college ranks. He joins former teammate Tyler Bremner, who was drafted second overall last year. Flora's impressive control and fastball, which can reach triple digits, make him a top pitching prospect. Callis highlights his 'complete package,' including a slider and a recently added kick-change that can miss bats. The Giants, in need of pitching, may be eager to bring Flora up quickly, especially with his durable build and overwhelming fastball.
Roch Cholowsky, SS, White Sox
Roch Cholowsky, a right-handed hitter and the top college shortstop prospect in over two decades, has a keen eye at the plate. His plus-or-better tools, except for 45-grade speed, make him an exciting prospect. Mayo suggests that Cholowsky could make an appearance in the Arizona Fall League, which would put him on a path to start the year in Double-A. While he might not be up by late April, he could be promoted by June. The White Sox, with their need for a shortstop, may be eager to bring Cholowsky up ahead of the All-Star break.
Drew Burress, OF, Athletics
Drew Burress, a 5-foot-9 center fielder, burst onto the scene at Georgia Tech with an impressive power-hitting display. His disciplined approach and solid-to-plus tools across the board make him a strong candidate for a quick promotion. Callis notes that Burress' size and handedness might be a concern, but his tools and the success of similar players like Nick Kurtz and Jacob Wilson suggest that the Athletics won't be afraid to bring him up quickly if his bat proves ready.
In conclusion, these four prospects, Cole Carlon, Jackson Flora, Roch Cholowsky, and Drew Burress, are expected to make a swift ascent to the MLB, thanks to their impressive skills, team needs, and the potential for early promotion. The 2026 draft class is shaping up to be an exciting one, with these players already generating buzz and anticipation among fans and analysts alike.
