The Washington Nationals have just wrapped up their 2026 draft class, and it's an exciting group of prospects that could shape the team's future. While it's too early to tell if this draft will be a success, my initial impression is that the Nationals have done a fantastic job of assembling a talented and deep group of players. Let's dive into the draft class and explore what each prospect brings to the table.
A Strong Start
The Nationals began their draft with a bang, selecting 2B Chris Hacopian from Texas A&M in the first round. Hacopian is a hitter's hitter, boasting an impressive 116 wRC+ this season. His batted ball profile is exceptional, with excellent bat-to-ball skills, plate discipline, and raw power. I'm confident that Hacopian will become an above-average big league hitter, and perhaps even sooner than most. His defensive versatility, including the ability to handle third base, adds to his appeal.
Round two saw the Nationals snatch up OF Chase Brunson from TCU. Brunson is a power-hitting outfielder with a 131 wRC+ in 51 games. His raw power is above-average, and he excels at getting the ball in the air and hitting to the pullside. While his hit tool is average, his power potential and center field skills make him a valuable addition to the Nationals' outfield.
SS Luke Williams from Franklin Regional HS was the star of the third round. Williams is one of the best athletes in the high school class, displaying solid power and elite speed. Despite missing most of the 2025 summer circuit due to an ankle injury, the Nationals believe they got a steal. His limited sample size against top competition adds to the intrigue.
The fourth round saw the Nationals land RHP Cooper Harris from Flower Mound HS. Harris is a highly regarded prospect with a big fastball topping 96 MPH. His repeatable delivery and feel for spinning breaking balls make him a potential future big league starter. With some pitch development, he could become one of the Nationals' top pitching prospects.
Day Two and Beyond
The Nationals continued their draft with a mix of power-hitting third baseman Daniel Cuvet and promising pitchers. The team also added three high school hitters in rounds 15-17, with Murphy, Galason, and Rivero, who was originally set to sign with the Dodgers before being denied eligibility. Rivero's simple swing and strong defensive skills make him an intriguing addition.
The draft concluded with a mix of college prospects, including hitters and pitchers. The Nationals selected 12 hitters and 8 pitchers, with a focus on talent and depth. Hacopian, Brunson, and Williams stand out as potential stars, while Harris and Cuvet show promise as pitchers.
Personal Takeaway
Overall, the Nationals' 2026 draft class is an exciting group of prospects. Hacopian, Brunson, and Williams are already hitting the ball well, and their defensive skills add to their appeal. Harris and Cuvet show potential as pitchers, and the addition of Rivero and other high school hitters provides depth. The Nationals have assembled a strong group, and I'm eager to see these prospects develop and contribute to the team's success in the future.
This draft class is a testament to the Nationals' front office's ability to identify and acquire top talent. With a mix of power hitters and promising pitchers, the team has set the stage for a bright future. Now, it's up to these prospects to live up to the hype and make their mark in the big leagues.
