With the 2020 MLB Draft beginning Wednesday, “DodgerHeads” host Jeff Spiegel welcomed back Los Angeles Dodgers prospects guru Justin Lorber (@FutureDodgers).
The two discussed changes to this year’s Draft, which most prominently has been shortened from 40 rounds to just five, due to the impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic that also has prevented the regular season from beginning.
With this year’s MLB Draft drastically reduced, it could prompt a change in strategy. Spiegel and Lorber discussed what approach the Dodgers could take, particularly if a highly-touted player falls and is still available at No. 29.
The Dodgers have three selections within the first 66 picks, with the last of those being part of their return in a February trade that sent Kenta Maeda, Jair Camargo and cash considerations to the Minnesota Twins in exchange for Brusdar Graterol, Luke Raley and the draft pick.
The 2020 MLB Draft will be held virtually and Day 1 coverage will air live on both MLB Network and ESPN. Beginning at 4 p.m. PT, MLB Network and ESPN will both carry the first round (selections Nos. 1-29) and Competitive Balance Round A (selections 30-37).
Beginning at 2 p.m. on Thursday, MLB Network and ESPN2 will televise the second round (beginning with the 38th overall selection) through the fifth round. Spiegel and Lorber will recap the Dodgers’ first-round pick on Wednesday, then do a full MLB Draft recap Monday.
In addition to discussing prospects, Spiegel also touched on the latest update in negotiations between MLB and the Players Association. Every indication is the union doesn’t believe the most recent proposal from the league is much of an improvement, and they continue to seek full prorated salaries.
Spiegel outlined the various factors at play and why the situation isn’t simply a matter of choosing to side with team owners or players.
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