Rangers linked to Mississippi State's bat-first 3B in upcoming MLB Draft

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Rangers linked to Mississippi State's bat-first 3B in upcoming MLB Draft

Rangers linked to Mississippi State's bat-first 3B in upcoming MLB Draft

This could be a risky pick.

Rangers linked to Mississippi State's bat-first 3B in upcoming MLB Draft

This could be a risky pick.

The Texas Rangers have built a reputation for finding impact talent in the first round of the MLB Draft. From Cole Ragans and Josh Jung to Jack Leiter and Wyatt Langford, the organization has consistently landed quality players who can contribute at the highest level.

Historically, the Rangers' front office has favored college players over high school prospects. But last summer, they pivoted, selecting shortstop Gavin Fien out of Great Oak High School with the 12th overall pick. This year, Texas holds the 16th overall selection, and while some elite names will be off the board, plenty of intriguing options should remain.

Over the past three drafts, the Rangers have cycled through an outfielder, a catcher, and a shortstop. They've also invested heavily in pitching. But according to Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter, Texas may go all-in on a bat this time around—specifically, Mississippi State third baseman Ace Reese.

Reuter describes Reese as a "bat-first, corner infielder with limited defensive value"—a profile that carries some risk. But the numbers are hard to ignore. The 6'4", 220-pound right-handed slugger is slashing .317/.420/.688 this spring, with 19 doubles, 17 home runs, and 60 RBIs in 49 games. If a team believes Reese can stick at third base or handle left field, he could come off the board even earlier than projected.

Defensively, Reese may face challenges sticking in the infield at the big league level. But his bat is among the best in this draft class. If he continues to rake, he could climb a few spots before draft day. For now, Reuter sees the Rangers making Reese their first-round pick—a move that could pay off big if his offensive game translates to the pros.

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