Orioles Reportedly Considering Passing on Adley Rutschman With First Overall Pick in 2019 MLB Draft

Adley Rutschman, one of the most electrifying players in college baseball, has been labeled as one of the best MLB draft prospects since Bryce Harper.

The Baltimore Orioles, however, appear to think they could do just as well by dipping into other pools, as they are reportedly considering not selecting the Oregon State catcher with the first overall pick.

Smokescreen? Desire for an underslot deal? Insanity? Either way, the O's should not overthink this.

He's done nothing but rake this year, slashing .418/.580/.764 with 17 home runs and 58 runs batted in. Those numbers are especially eye-popping considering he's a catcher, a position not known for strong offensive production.

Rutschman is so feared in the college world that he was actually intentionally walked with the bases loaded in the early rounds of CWS regionals. For months leading up to the draft, he's been the consensus top pick.

Multiple scouts insist that the Orioles are considering other options, though. They've got their eyes on prospects like Cal first baseman Andrew Vaughn, who posted a 1.260 OPS in his junior year, and could be available at a lower cost.

Rutschman is viewed as a can't-miss prospect by a majority of the league, and if the Orioles do indeed end up passing on him, it may be viewed as one of the biggest draft flubs in recent memory. No pressure or anything.