Know the Draft: 2018 Pools, Slots, and Rules
May 29, 2018
The MLB Draft is fast approaching and many prospects are filled with excitement waiting to see when, or if, their name will be called. Approximately 1,200 players will hear their name called. Some of the players may have an option to return to school, enroll in their University of choice, or to sign and start their professional process. Other players may have used up their college eligibility and will be beginning their next step.
While the main purpose of this space is to discuss recruiting, the MLB Draft does play into the recruiting process for many players and most schools across the country. Players should understand how the draft works and what the allotment for each round are each year. A top 10 round pick is a very good draft. It reflects that the selecting organization is investing in a player with the hopes they get to the Major Leagues. A signing bonus of $140,000 in the 10th round, may not last as long as a prospect may hope. As players navigate the minor leagues, the signing bonus may be the funding they need to help them stay above water for 2 – 8 years.
The MLB Draft is a business. Major League Baseball has rules for the Draft, working to level the playing field and keep the draft process fair for all teams. The negotiating process for players that are selected may be limited but players that understand the process may be have a better feel for their worth in an organization that is signing them.
Last year we took a look at the overall draft process, and different ways players may be able to affect their value to a team, Recruiting Essentials: MLB Draft. To prepare for this year’s draft we will make sure everyone is on the same page with the rules and procedures MLB has set aside for each organization.
The 2018 MLB Draft
Inside the Top 10 rounds, every pick is assigned a dollar value. Over the course of the 10 rounds, each club can calculate their Draft Pool, or money available to spend on the draft. After the 10th round, teams are allotted $125,000 per round. Teams are allowed to go over the $125,000 in rounds 11 – 40, but any overage must come out of their Draft Pool from the first 10 rounds.
Bonus Pools for All MLB Clubs: