Blue Jays Make Strategic Picks on Day 2 of MLB Draft

The second day of the 2026 MLB amateur draft saw the Blue Jays expand their roster with 16 additional picks, building on the three selections made on the first day. The team’s strategy was clear: to make savvy deals that would allow them to maximize their budget while still bringing in talent.

Among their notable selections were Cole Carlon and Will Brick, both players who were anticipated to be drafted earlier. Their potential to command over-slot bonuses means the Blue Jays will need to allocate extra funds to secure their commitments. Brick, in particular, holds the leverage of a commitment to Mississippi State, leaving the door open for a potential first-round selection in three years if he chooses to return to college.

In rounds 5 through 10, Toronto opted for college players, primarily seniors who lack the leverage to return to school. By selecting these players, the Jays aim to sign them for less than their slot values, thereby freeing up the necessary funds for Carlon and Brick. It’s important to note that while these players may not be as well-known, they possess significant talent. Take, for example, Danny Thompson Jr., who signed as a fifth-year super senior for just $5,000 last year. He has already made a name for himself, climbing to Double-A with impressive results in his first full professional season.

Another key theme for the Blue Jays was a focus on contact hitters. While late-round selections often come with questions about defensive positions and power, the organization has consistently prioritized pure hitting ability. The willingness to accept certain limitations in exchange for elite contact skills reflects the team’s long-standing philosophy. As they navigate the later rounds of the draft, the Blue Jays are clearly committed to enhancing their lineup with players who can make contact and put the ball in play.

Here are the selections made by the Blue Jays on Day 2, in order:

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.