Let's dive into a fascinating journey through the 2016 MLB Draft, a decade after it shook up the baseball world. Personally, I find it intriguing to revisit these drafts and see how they've played out, especially when they were initially considered 'uncertain' or even 'worst' by scouts. It's a reminder that hindsight is a powerful tool and that potential can often be hidden in unexpected places.
The 2016 Draft: A Retrospective
Back in 2016, the draft was dominated by high school pitchers, a demographic known for its risk. College hitters, despite their potential, were uncertain picks, and many top college arms didn't live up to the hype. One scouting executive even went as far as to call it 'the worst top five or top 10 in the last 20 years'.
Fast forward ten years, and the results are in. The 2016 first round is now considered one of the worst in recent memory. Only one first-round pick made it to the top 15 in this redraft, and just eight made the retro first round. This is a stark contrast to the nine players found in double-digit rounds, which is an interesting twist.
Redrafting the Stars
One of the most fascinating aspects of this redraft is the emergence of Will Smith and Cole Ragans as All-Stars. Smith, drafted by the Dodgers in the 32nd round, has become a three-time All-Star and even hit a game-winning home run in the 2025 World Series. It's a testament to the power of development and the potential that can be unlocked with the right opportunities.
Bo Bichette, originally a second-round pick, made two All-Star teams and led the American League in hits. Pete Alonso, another second-round pick, smashed 53 homers in his rookie year and made five All-Star Games. These players, initially considered risky or uncertain, have proven their worth and exceeded expectations.
The Bargain Finds
The real gems of this redraft are the players who were drafted late but have since become stars. David Bednar, a 35th-round pick by the Padres, is now a two-time All-Star. And let's not forget Rico Garcia and Tony Gonsolin, senior-sign right-handers who signed for a mere $1,000 and $2,500 respectively and have since made their mark in the league.
A Look at the Missed Opportunities
While some players exceeded expectations, others didn't quite live up to the hype. Mickey Moniak, the Phillies' first overall pick, struggled to find regular playing time. Nick Senzel, the Reds' third overall pick, never really got going due to injuries and position changes. These are the risks and rewards of the draft, and it's a reminder that potential is an unpredictable beast.
Final Thoughts
This redraft highlights the complexity and unpredictability of the MLB Draft. It's a fascinating insight into the world of scouting and development, and it shows us that sometimes, the best players are the ones we least expect. It's a reminder to always keep an open mind and to never underestimate the power of potential. As they say, hindsight is 20/20, but the future is always full of surprises.
