As the 2025 MLB season progresses, the New York Yankees are gearing up for the upcoming MLB Draft on July 13, and all eyes are on their potential first-round pick. Baseball America writer Carlos Collazo predicts that the Yankees will select Texas outfielder Max Belyeu with their 39th overall pick, a move that could shake up the draft.
Collazo notes, “If Belyeu were healthy, he would probably be solidly locked into first-round territory. He hasn’t played since March 28 because of a thumb injury, but when healthy, he displayed one of the better hit tools in the class to go with a plus throwing arm in right field.” Despite his injury, Belyeu’s talent makes him a compelling choice for the Pinstripes.
The 21-year-old Belyeu, ranked 31st on MLB.com’s Top Baseball Draft Prospects list, is coming off his third year with the Texas Longhorns. According to the Austin American-Statesman, Belyeu could command a signing bonus of approximately $2.97 million, reflecting his high prospect status. MLB.com praises his offensive prowess, stating, “One of the best all-around offensive players in the college crop, Belyeu hits for average and power while controlling the strike zone and making consistent hard contact.” His quick left-handed swing is tailored for line drives, with the ability to pull pitches for home runs or drive them to the opposite field.
However, MLB.com also points out areas for improvement: “His ability to put the bat on the ball cuts into his walk totals a bit, and he struggled against non-fastballs last summer with the U.S. collegiate national team and in the Cape Cod League after crushing them during the spring.” Despite these challenges, Belyeu posted a .303 batting average in the 2025 season, with 26 runs, a .410 on-base percentage, and a .576 slugging percentage.
Unfortunately, Belyeu’s season was cut short by his thumb injury, and he was unable to return before the Longhorns’ elimination from the NCAA baseball tournament on Sunday. Nevertheless, his combination of offensive skill, defensive potential, and raw talent makes him a prime target for the Yankees, who are looking to bolster their roster with a dynamic young player.
If the Yankees secure Belyeu, this move could signal their intent to build around versatile, high-upside prospects, setting the stage for an exciting future in the Bronx.