Justin Lebron Among Top 12 Picks in 2026 MLB Draft

CBS Sports Projects Lebron 16th Overall to Texas Rangers

Analyst Mike Axisa placed Justin Lebron at pick 16 in CBS Sports’ final mock draft, noting he falls between Arkansas catcher Ryder Helfrick (14th) and Texas A&M second baseman Chris Hacopian. The Rangers have shown a preference for high‑profile prospects, citing Jack Leiter and Kumar Rocker as recent examples. Axisa highlighted Lebron’s speed, power and athleticism, while warning that plate‑discipline issues have limited his ceiling. Texas’s interest in “famous” prospects could make the pick a fitting fit for the club.

ESPN Ranks Lebron 12th to Los Angeles Angels

In ESPN’s final mock draft, Kiley McDaniel slotted Lebron as the 12th overall selection for the Angels, with LSU outfielder Derek Curiel taken just before him. McDaniel explained that interim baseball operations chief John Mozeliak’s hands‑off approach lets scouts drive the decision, opening the door for a college hitter with upside. He described Lebron as “a nice value here,” suggesting the Angels could prioritize raw tools over polished prep prospects. The Angels’ roster needs a versatile middle infielder, making Lebron’s skill set attractive.

For The Win Puts Lebron As High As 8th to Athletics

The USA TODAY Sports Media Group’s “For The Win” projection from Wajih AlBaroudi sent Lebron as high as the eighth overall pick to the Athletics. AlBaroudi praised Lebron’s dynamic athleticism, noting his only glaring flaw is patience at the plate. He suggested that if Lebron can improve his approach, he could become a fixture at the top of the A’s lineup. The Athletics have been aggressive in recent drafts, and a high‑region pick gives them a chance to secure a premium talent.

Keith Law (The Athletic) Projects Lebron 15th to Arizona Diamondbacks

Keith Law’s latest mock draft, according to The Athletic, has Lebron going 15th overall to the Arizona Diamondbacks. While the exact reasoning was not detailed, the Diamondbacks have shown interest in versatile infielders with elite defensive tools. Arizona’s farm system could use a player who combines power, speed and a strong arm. This projection keeps Lebron within the top‑pair of middle‑round selections.

College Stats Show Alabama’s Elite Performance

Lebron batted .313 with a .414 on‑base percentage, 45 home runs, 39 doubles and 158 RBIs over three seasons for Alabama. He also stole 69 bases in his collegiate career, highlighting his combination of power and speed. In his final season, he posted a .277 average, 16 homers and 13 doubles while helping the Crimson Tide win 42 games. Alabama reached the College World Series for the first time since 1999, giving Lebron a prominent showcase.

When and Where to Watch the 2026 Draft

The 2026 MLB Draft kicks off Saturday in Philadelphia, with rounds 1‑4 starting at noon CT. The first ten picks will be televised on NBC and streaming on Peacock, while MLB Network carries picks 11‑40 beginning at 1:30 p.m. Saturday. Rounds 5‑20 will be broadcast Sunday at 10:30 a.m. CT on MLB.com. Fans can follow all the action online, with multiple platforms covering the early rounds.

Stay tuned for updates as teams make their selections and the conversation about Justin Lebron’s future continues.