TABL Draft 2026: Top 5 Picks Set the Tone as the Draft Gets Underway

The TABL Draft is officially underway, and while there’s a long road ahead, the opening five selections have already made a statement. These picks reflect a blend of upside, positional value, and long-term roster building, exactly what you want to see when a draft is just getting started.

Here’s a look at the Top 5 Picks and what each selection brings to the table as the league begins shaping its future.

1. Roman Anthony – OF

The draft kicks off with a potential franchise cornerstone. Anthony brings a polished bat, athleticism, and a mature approach well beyond his years. As an outfielder with middle-of-the-order upside, this is the kind of pick that can anchor a lineup for seasons to come.

Draft takeaway: High ceiling, high confidence pick to start the draft.

2. Nick Kurtz – 1B

Power bats don’t last long in TABL drafts, and Kurtz fits the bill perfectly. With elite strength, plate discipline, and run-producing potential, he projects as a lineup force the moment he arrives. First base is locked down early with this selection.

Draft takeaway: A true impact bat taken exactly where he should be.

3. Nolan McLean – RHP / 3B

One of the most intriguing picks in the draft so far. McLean’s two-way versatility gives this selection tremendous flexibility. Whether he settles in as a frontline arm or contributes offensively, the upside makes this a bold and calculated move.

Draft takeaway: High upside and adaptability, classic swing for the fences pick.

4. Cade Horton – RHP

Every draft needs pitching, and Horton represents stability with strikeout potential. He brings a strong competitive edge, advanced command, and the look of a future rotation anchor. Locking in pitching early is never a bad strategy.

Draft takeaway: Safe, smart, and foundational.

5. Drake Baldwin – C

Catcher is one of the toughest positions to fill long term, and Baldwin checks a lot of boxes. With a rising bat and improving defensive profile, this pick secures a premium position early and sets the tone for roster balance.

Draft takeaway: Positional value meets upward momentum.

The Draft Is Just Getting Started

These first five picks give us a clear signal: teams are drafting for the future, not just short-term gains. With elite bats, premium positions, and high-ceiling arms already off the board, the pressure is now on as the next wave of selections approaches.

If the opening picks are any indication, this TABL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and strategic yet, and we’re only getting started.

Stay tuned. The board is moving, the strategies are unfolding, and the real drama is just beginning.