Dodgers, Diamondbacks Add Top College Talent

The 2025 MLB Draft featured several notable collegiate selections, including the Arizona Diamondbacks picking Louisville pitcher Patrick Forbes at No. 29 and South Carolina outfielder Nathan Hall at No. 153. The Los Angeles Dodgers selected Arkansas teammates Zach Root (No. 40), a left-handed pitcher with a 3.62 ERA and 126 strikeouts, and outfielder Charles Davalan (No. 41), who hit .346 with 14 home runs and was named first team All-SEC. Additionally, the Dodgers drafted Mississippi State transfer Davion Hickson in the fifth round at No. 165 following his standout season at Rice. Both franchises emphasized proven college talent with their early selections. These picks are expected to strengthen each team's farm system and provide immediate depth. The Dodgers' back-to-back selection of Arkansas stars marks a notable highlight of their draft strategy.