Grading Orioles GM Mike Elias's last 5 first-round draft picks

2023 - Enrique Bradfield (No. 17) - B+

Elias went back to the mold to draft a college outfielder once again, but Bradfield profiles as a much different player than Cowser or Kjerstad. The Vanderbilt product prioritizes speed over power, and for an Orioles squad that falls well below average in the stolen base department, he could give the team a new dimension. His slick fielding and table-setting skills have drawn comparisons to Kenny Lofton, but it will likely be several years before he makes the big leagues as he is currently in High-A.

This selection is the most difficult to grade considering the limited time that players have had to establish themselves. Most of the subsequent picks were high school bats, which generally require more time to develop. Only Hurston Waldrep has made a significant leap through the Minors, and while he would certainly be welcome on an injury-ridden Orioles staff, it’s likely Baltimore would have been unable to woo the Georgia native who compromised on an under-slot deal to sign with the Braves.