The Guardians took Texas A&M outfielder Jace LaViolette, known for his power, with the No. 27 overall pick.
The Guardians selected Texas A&M outfielder Jace LaViolette with their first-round pick in the 2025 MLB Draft.
LaViolette, a power-hitting left-handed hitter, was ranked as the No. 20 overall prospect by MLB Pipeline. The Guardians used overall pick No. 27 to add him to their minor league system.
During his three seasons with Texas A&M, LaViolette set school records with 68 home runs and 169 walks drawn while leading the Aggies to the College World Series Finals in 2024.
Jace LaViolette drafted by Guardians in 1st round
At 6-6, 230 pounds, LaViolette is an imposing hitter who might have threatened as the No. 1 overall selection if not for some concerns with his hit-and-miss skills. He was named a third-team All-American by Perfect Game and the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association, and he was a semifinalist for the 2025 Dick Howser Award, given to the national collegiate player of the year.
LaViolette is noted by MLB Pipeline has possessing as much raw power as any hitter in the draft. His 25 percent strikeout rate during his junior year at Texas A&M is the lone concern, and the only reason he was still on the board at No. 27.
LaViolette played all over the outfield during his three years in college, though his profile is likely best to fit in right field in the pros.
This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: 2025 MLB Draft: Guardians select OF Jace LaViolette in first round
Category: Baseball
