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Draft Picks That Changed the Game in MLB

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The draft is where legends are made, and these picks hit the jackpot. They have brought championships, broke records, and made their teams proud. Let’s check out the most game-changing MLB draft picks that took the league by storm and became the heart of their franchises.

Atlanta Braves: Chipper Jones

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A true Braves icon, Chipper Jones was the team’s heartbeat for two decades. Drafted in 1990, he didn’t just switch-hit his way into the Hall of Fame; he led Atlanta to a World Series and was a franchise player from start to finish. Few players personified their team’s spirit as Chipper did.

New York Yankees: Derek Jeter

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Derek Jeter isn’t just a Yankees legend; he’s baseball royalty. The 1992 first-round pick became the face of New York’s most recent dynasty, collecting five World Series titles and always delivering when the pressure was highest. “The Captain” didn’t need to say much; his play spoke for itself.

Boston Red Sox: Carl Yastrzemski

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Carl Yastrzemski, better known as “Yaz,” is one of the most beloved figures in Red Sox history. Boston fans watched him dominate over 23 seasons, and though he was drafted in 1958, his contributions remain timeless. Be it his Triple Crown or MVP win, Yaz left a mark that still shines at Fenway.

Los Angeles Dodgers: Clayton Kershaw

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The Dodgers snagged Clayton Kershaw with the seventh overall pick in 2006, and the rest is history. But even before the Cy Young Awards and a World Series ring, Kershaw showed the talent and focus that made him a franchise cornerstone. His fastball and curveball combo? Pure magic.

San Francisco Giants: Buster Posey

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Buster Posey was the fifth overall pick in 2008, but his leadership behind the plate was first-class from day one. The Giants rode his clutch hitting and rock-solid defense to three World Series championships. Few catchers in baseball history have been more reliable or beloved by their fanbase.

Chicago Cubs: Kris Bryant

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Drafted in 2013, Kris Bryant didn’t waste time making history with the Cubs. By 2016, he was key in snapping the infamous 108-year World Series drought and cemented his legacy in Chicago sports lore. A rookie sensation and MVP in his second year, Bryant’s pick paid off in ways Cubs fans still celebrate today.

St. Louis Cardinals: Albert Pujols

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Pujols was a hidden gem, taken as a 13th-round pick in 1999. But man, did he shine! With three MVPs and two World Series titles under his belt, Pujols is one of the greatest hitters the game has ever seen. Cardinals fans knew they were witnessing greatness every time he stepped up to bat.

Houston Astros: Craig Biggio

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Houston found their rock in 1987, but Biggio didn’t just stick around—he excelled. Over a 20-year career, Biggio became the model of consistency for the Astros, racking up 3,000 hits and seven All-Star appearances. He’s one of the few players to spend his entire career with the same team, a rarity these days.

Philadelphia Phillies: Mike Schmidt

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Phillies fans struck gold in 1971 when they drafted Mike Schmidt. A powerhouse at the plate and a wizard at third base, Schmidt hammered out 548 home runs and won three MVPs. Add 10 Gold Gloves, and you’ve got one of the most complete players in baseball history.

Cleveland Guardians: Manny Ramírez

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Though Manny Ramírez may be remembered for his quirky personality, it’s his bat that Cleveland fans loved most. Drafted 13th overall in 1991, Ramírez brought plenty of excitement to the team and helped lead them to multiple postseason appearances. His raw hitting talent made him a force to be reckoned with.

Seattle Mariners: Ken Griffey Jr.

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Ken Griffey Jr. wasn’t just the Mariners’ first overall pick in 1987; he was the face of the franchise for over a decade. “The Kid” had a swing so smooth it looked effortless. But don’t let that fool you; Griffey hit 630 home runs and changed the game with his talent and love for baseball.

Toronto Blue Jays: Roy Halladay

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Roy Halladay wasn’t flashy when Toronto drafted him 17th overall in 1995, but his performance was pure brilliance. Known as “Doc,” Halladay dominated the mound with pinpoint control and relentless work ethic, winning two Cy Youngs. He’s remembered as one of the best pitchers to ever wear a Blue Jays uniform.

Minnesota Twins: Joe Mauer

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A hometown hero from the start, Joe Mauer didn’t just fulfill expectations; he shattered them. Drafted first overall in 2001, Mauer became one of the best-hitting catchers in baseball history, taking home three batting titles and an MVP award. And Minnesota fans loved every minute of his journey.

Detroit Tigers: Justin Verlander

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Justin Verlander was more than just a second-overall pick in 2004; he was a game-changer for Detroit. Known for his blistering fastball, Verlander racked up two Cy Youngs, an MVP, and a World Series title. Even years later, Verlander continues to show why he was one of the best picks in Tigers’ history.

Milwaukee Brewers: Robin Yount

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Robin Yount wasn’t your top pick, but he became Milwaukee’s best draft in 1973; he was a versatile, dependable star for the Brewers, and this earned him two MVPs and 3,000 hits. Whether at shortstop or center field, Yount always played with heart and hustle, which made him a legend in Milwaukee.

Written by Ian Bronson

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