NECBL to MLB: 2025 Draft Recap; Former Bat Taylor Highest Pick
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. – The New England League’s motto is “Keep Your Eye on the Dream,” and every summer the dream comes alive at the MLB Draft. The draft concluded on July 14th, and 39 NECBL alumni or current players were chosen. Following the draft, an additional eight players signed professional contracts. A total of 45 players have now been given the chance to fulfill their dream of playing professional baseball through 24 clubs. 16 of 20 rounds included NECBL alumni.
By Christopher Mason
NORTH ADAMS, Mass. – The New England League's motto is "Keep Your Eye on the Dream," and every summer the dream comes alive at the MLB Draft. The draft concluded on July 14th, and 39 NECBL alumni or current players were chosen. Following the draft, an additional eight players signed professional contracts. A total of 45 players have now been given the chance to fulfill their dream of playing professional baseball through 24 clubs. 16 of 20 rounds included NECBL alumni.
Newport led the way with a total number of draftees, with six Gulls being selected by MLB teams. The Schooners, Bristol, and the Navigators were tied in second with five, followed by Keene, Upper Valley, Vermont, Sanford, and the Waves, all of whom saw four prospects. The Martha's Vineyard Sharks and Danbury posted two players.
The NECBL had six alumni sign as undrafted free agents with teams such as the Yankees, Padres, Rays, and Mariners.
Pitchers led the NECBL players drafted this year at 21. Eight outfielders and seven infielders were the next most-favored positions. Of the 45 signees, 42 played for DI programs, while two played in DIII.
Full Draft List
|
Pick # |
Round |
NECBL Team |
NECBL Yr. |
Player Name |
MLB Team |
|
48 |
2 |
Keene SwampBats |
2023 |
Devin Taylor |
Athletics |
|
59 |
2 |
Newport Gulls |
2023 |
J.D. Thompson |
Brewers |
|
66 |
2 (Comp B) |
Ocean State Waves |
2024 |
Aaron Walton |
Guardians |
|
81 |
3 |
Ocean State Waves |
2023-24 |
Jake Cook |
Blue Jays |
|
96 |
3 |
Mystic Schooners |
2023 |
Cody Miller |
Braves |
|
99 |
3 |
North Shore Navigators |
2024 |
Ryan Wideman |
Padres |
|
100 |
3 |
Sanford Mainers |
2023 |
Cody Bowker |
Phillies |
|
126 |
4 |
Upper Valley Nighthawks |
2023 |
Nick Monistere |
Astros |
|
129 |
4 |
Newport Gulls |
2023 |
Caleb Leys |
Tigers |
|
136 |
4C |
Newport Gulls |
2024 |
Dixon Williams |
Braves |
|
153 |
5 |
Martha's Vineyard Sharks |
2023 |
Nathan Hall |
Diamondbacks |
|
171 |
6 |
Bristol Blues |
2022 |
Boston Smith |
Nationals |