The Atlanta Braves have made a bold move in the 2026 MLB Draft, selecting Cole Dennis, a promising young right-handed pitcher from Florida, with their 112th pick. This selection is an intriguing one, and it has me thinking about the potential this player possesses and the strategy behind the Braves' choice.
The Talent and Potential
Cole Dennis, at just 17 years old, has already caught the attention of scouts with his impressive arm and a repertoire of pitches that show great promise. Standing at 6'4" and weighing 215 lbs, he has the physical attributes to be a force on the mound. His fastball, which has been clocked at 96 MPH, is a real weapon, and with some refinement, it could become an elite pitch.
What makes Dennis particularly fascinating is his slider. It's a pitch that has the potential to be a real game-changer for him. With a bit more power added to it, this slider could become a dominant offering. His changeup, while currently a work in progress, shows good control and could develop into a reliable third pitch.
Command and Control
One area where Dennis might need some work is his command. While he has good control and throws strikes, the consistency of his command could be improved. This is something that the Braves will likely focus on as he transitions to a full-time pitcher. The fact that he has been a two-way star in high school, splitting his time between pitching and another position, might have impacted his command development.
A Projectable Arm
The Braves have selected a player with a high ceiling and a lot of potential. Dennis is a projectable arm, and with the right development, he could become a middle-of-the-rotation starter. His package of traits is impressive, and if he can refine his pitches, especially his command, he could be a real find for the Braves.
The Lottery Ticket
Selecting Cole Dennis feels like the Braves are buying a lottery ticket with a high chance of winning. It's a risky move, but one that could pay off handsomely. The Braves are investing in a young player with immense talent and the potential to become a key part of their future pitching rotation. This selection shows a willingness to take a chance on a player with a high upside.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 MLB Draft has provided an exciting glimpse into the future of baseball, and the Braves' selection of Cole Dennis is a testament to their scouting prowess and willingness to take calculated risks. It will be fascinating to see how Dennis develops and whether he can reach the heights his talent suggests. Personally, I think this is a great pick, and I'm excited to see what the future holds for this young pitcher.
