Major League Baseball and USA Baseball announced they will feature a lineup of evaluation and showcase events for 2021 and 2022 Draft prospects in June, including the first-ever MLB Draft Combine for high school and college baseball players.
What’s more, the PDP League will return after a one-year hiatus. Last year’s event was cancelled due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This is a development and assessment opportunity specifically for high school players that are eligible for the 2022 MLB Draft.
The aforementioned events will be hosted at the USA Baseball National Training Complex in Cary, N.C. They will strictly adhere to health protocols and other safety measures that are consistent with all state and local regulations.
The inaugural MLB Draft Combine, which will take place June 20-28, is set to feature top high school and college baseball prospects who have the opportunity to participate in a series of medical and performance assessments.
The top 88 high school players will be selected to participate in a unique showcase tournament from June 20-26. The tournament will feature eight games, including “bronze medal” and “gold medal” games, as well as PDP Performance Assessments and a pro-style showcase workout.
All participants of the newly formed MLB Draft League will have the opportunity to participate in Combine assessments and evaluations through special events in Draft League communities during the month of June. Medical and performance assessments for all athletes will be conducted June 24th-28th.
The second PDP League, set for July 22 through Aug. 1, will feature the top 96 high school players who are eligible for the 2022 MLB Draft. Additional details for the MLB Draft Combine and the 2021 PDP League will be announced at a later date.
The events will bookend the 2021 MLB Draft, which is planned for July 11-13. It’ll mark the first time since its inception in 1965 that the Draft takes place outside of the month of June.
The 2021 MLB Draft will feature a minimum of 20 rounds, which is an increase from the five in last year’s event. The opening night of the draft will follow the 2021 SiriusXM All-Star Futures Game at Truist Park.
MLB, Players Association in negotiations for 2021 season
After a quiet offseason, MLB and the Players Association reportedly are in negotiations for Spring Training and the 2021 season. The league proposed pushing Opening Day back along with again implementing a universal designated hitter and expanded postseason.
The union is expected reject the offer.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in our shows, and more!
