3 Draft Picks Indians Could Make in 2020 First Round

Even though the 2020 MLB Draft was shut down in its target location of Omaha, Neb. due to the coronavirus pandemic, the big event will still go on as planned on June 10 from the MLB Network Studios. The Cleveland Indians are sitting on the fence as to whether they should compete or rebuild, but whatever they decide, Cleveland has the chance to select a stud with the No. 23 pick in the first round of the draft.

Here are three candidates that the Indians could very well select with their first pick of the draft.

3. RHP Chris McMahon, Miami

It's no secret that the Indians are in desperate need for some right-handed pitchers due to the trades of Corey Kluber and Trevor Bauer. Luckily for Cleveland, Miami's Chris McMahon should fall right into their lap. McMahon has the highest ceiling of all pitching prospects, but is a bit of a project. He can consistently throw a 95-96 mph fastball and boasts a changeup that can effectively fool batters. This season, McMahon became a Second Team All-American after going 3-0 and posting an impressive 1.05 ERA. Make no mistake about it, McMahon could potentially be a top-end pitcher in Cleveland's rotation in the near future.

2. RHP Jared Kelley, Refugio (Texas) HS

For the past five drafts, the Indians have avoided drafting a college player with their first selection, so we shouldn't be surprised if they take high school pitching prospect Jared Kelley. The right-hander showed during his time at Refugio that he can throw absolute heat with very little effort. Add that to his prototypical frame, and you can see why MLB scouts fell in love with the reigning Gatorade Player of the Year. Kelley was originally ranked as the No. 7 prospect in the class, but dropped a bit in earlier this year due to issues with his conditioning. That should be no worry for the Indians, who are known for their stellar work with pitching prospects.

1. C Dillon Dingler, Ohio State

When looking at various MLB mock drafts, the name most linked to the Indians is Ohio State catcher Dillon Dingler. Upon joining the Buckeyes, Dingler was originally an outfielder, but transitioned to catcher following his freshman year. Scouts say he has above-average arm strength and he can control the base paths with relative ease. Through his three seasons at Ohio State, Dingler threw out 21-of-42 baserunners, not to mention he possesses patience in the batter's box and has raw power in his swing. Considering how difficult it is to find great catchers, Cleveland would be wise to use their first pick on Dingler to solidify the position for the future.