Angels projected to target another fast-tracking college bat at pick 12

ASFN Admin · May 21, 2026

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Angels projected to target another fast-tracking college bat at pick 12 originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Over the years, the Los Angeles Angels have had their fair share of early first-round picks. It has become common for the club that has not been to the postseason since the 2014 season.

Last year, they were awarded the second overall pick. With it, they selected UC Santa Barbara pitcher Tyler Bremner, who is currently in High-A with the Tri-City Dust Devils.

This year, the Halos will be selecting 12th overall. And while they would have loved a higher pick, there will be plenty of great options to choose from when it's their time to be on the clock.

MORE: Angels nearly traded Shohei Ohtani to Rays for package headlined by Junior Caminero

Angels projected to target another fast-tracking college bat at pick 12

The Angels have leaned toward taking advanced college players with their first-round picks over the years. The last time they drafted a prep player in the first round came all the way back in 2018 when they drafted shortstop Jordyn Adams.

The Halos like to target players who could be brought up faster than others. And that's exactly what Bleacher Report's Joel Reuter believes they will do, drafting Virginia outfielder AJ Gracia.

"Death, taxes and the Angels taking an advanced college player who can move quickly through their farm system. After two years at Duke, Gracia is enjoying the best season of his collegiate career after transferring to Virginia, hitting .330/.469/.613 with 14 home runs, 42 RBI and more walks than strikeouts for the second year in a row."

Gracia has looked like one of the better bats in the draft prospect class this year, and while he's not the fastest, scouts do believe he has the instincts to stick in center field.

If not, a move to left field could be a perfect option, given he does not have the arm projection that some others would have in right field.

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Angels projected to target another fast-tracking college bat at pick 12

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