When looking at UCLA’s roster, one MLB scout estimated the team’s remarkable talent. He noted that every player on the field has potential for the draft.
Let’s dive into the top picks.
Shortstop Roch Cholowski is expected to be chosen first overall by the Chicago White Sox on Saturday, marking UCLA’s first No. 1 pick since the Pirates took Gerrit Cole in 2011.
Another name to watch is right-handed pitcher Logan Reddeman, along with a few others likely to be picked in the early rounds.
The scout shared his insights with the California Post but wished to remain anonymous due to lack of official clearance to speak publicly.
Here are his thoughts on some of the Bruins who stand out this draft season.
SS Roch Cholowski
Statistics for 2026: Cholowski has put together a stellar season, hitting .320/.452/.636 with 74 hits, 73 runs, 60 RBIs, 10 doubles, and leading the team with 21 home runs.
Draft range: Potential first overall pick
Scout’s view: He possesses all the necessary skills—solid defensively at shortstop, he has power, a great swing, and strong intangibles. … There’s a concern that the White Sox may want to distribute their budget, and Cholowski might not settle for less than the $11.35 million slot value.
RHP Logan Reddeman
Statistics for 2026: Reddeman has excelled, boasting an 8-0 record with a 2.87 ERA and 84 strikeouts over 59 2/3 innings, though he was sidelined in mid-April with some arm fatigue.
Draft range: First round
Scout’s view: He’s likely a solid rotational pitcher—maybe not number one, but likely a number two. I look for players who can achieve swings and misses while also pitching contact effectively. We’ll need to closely examine the medical report.
1B Murivai Levu
Statistics for 2026: Known for his clutch performance, including two consecutive walk-off hits in the Big Ten Tournament, Levu hit .340/.441/.622 with 82 hits, 63 RBIs, and 18 home runs.
Draft range: First three rounds
Scout’s view: He has excellent mechanics at the plate—balanced and consistent. His swing quality and pitch recognition are strong points. However, his size might limit his ceiling.
CF Will Gasparino
Statistics for 2026: Among the top batters in the Big Ten, Gasparino had a .314/.412/.659 average, totaling 69 hits and 20 home runs.
Draft range: First three rounds
Scout’s view: He has exceptional athleticism and raw power, but he struggled with strikeouts last season. If he can improve his contact, he could be a first-round prospect. But that striking out issue remains a concern.
3B Roman Martin
Statistics for 2026: Martin recorded a .333/.446/.549 average with 79 hits and nine home runs.
Draft range: First three rounds
Scout’s view: He has great instincts and power potential. His performance at the plate is impressive, although his speed is a bit lacking, which may affect his profile.
C Cashel Dagger
Statistics for 2026: A solid defensive catcher, Dagger posted a .251/.378/.377 average with 39 RBIs.
Draft range: Middle rounds
Scout’s view: He’s a capable defensive player. He’s not an elite catcher, but he shows potential to lead a pitching staff. His left-handed hitting adds value.
LF Dean West
Statistics for 2026: West has been an exciting defender, hitting .277 with an on-base percentage of .418, including 10 doubles and seven home runs.
Draft range: Middle rounds
Scout’s view: There was initially some buzz about him. He could exceed expectations in the draft, especially if he steps up and proves his value beyond his signing bonus.
RHP Justin Lee
Statistics for 2026: Primarily a bullpen player, Lee holds a 3-0 record with a 3.26 ERA and 26 strikeouts over 19.1 innings.
Draft range: Middle rounds
Scout’s view: He pitches with good velocity and features a solid split-finger fastball, along with a competent slider.
P. Cal Randall
Statistics for 2026: As a relief pitcher, he won three games with a 3.19 ERA, striking out 57 batters in 31 innings.
Draft range: Mid to late rounds
Scout’s view: He’s shown impressive velocity, hitting 94-96 mph at times. The walks, however, are a concern. If he can address that, he could be rated more highly.
RF Peyton Brennan
Statistics for 2026: Brennan had a strong finish, recording a .290 average with 51 RBIs.
Draft range: Second half of the rounds
Scout’s view: He’s got some power, and while he isn’t the fastest, he’s a solid runner given his strength. There are questions about his age and how quickly he can adapt to pro ball.
