As the 2026 MLB Draft approaches, speculation continues to build regarding which direction the Texas Rangers could take with the No. 16 overall selection. With conference tournaments underway and draft boards constantly shifting, several high school prospects are beginning to gain momentum, including one fast-rising outfielder from Georgia who has quickly become a popular projection for Texas.
The Rangers enter this year’s draft holding the 16th pick, only a few spots lower than where they selected in 2025. Last year, the organization used the No. 12 overall choice on California high school shortstop Gavin Fien, signaling a willingness to invest in long-term upside rather than sticking exclusively to college talent.
That strategy represented a notable shift for the franchise. Before selecting Fien, the Rangers had not used a first-round pick on a prep player since 2018, when they drafted right-handed pitcher Cole Winn with the 15th overall selection. With this year’s draft class loaded with highly regarded high school talent, many evaluators believe Texas could once again target a younger player with significant upside.
One name rapidly climbing draft boards is Georgia outfielder Trevor Condon. While Eric Booth Jr. is widely expected to be the first high school outfielder selected in the draft, Condon has emerged as another prep standout who could hear his name called in the middle of the first round.
Condon’s rise has been fueled by his impressive athleticism and well-rounded offensive skill set. The left-handed hitter possesses a smooth swing that scouts believe will translate well at higher levels of baseball. In addition to his hitting ability, he also brings elite speed, making him a dangerous weapon both in the field and on the basepaths.
Because of those tools, several analysts now view him as a strong fit for teams selecting in the middle portion of the first round, including the Rangers. Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter recently connected Texas to the talented outfielder in a mock draft, pointing to Condon’s rapidly growing stock and exciting upside.
Reuter noted that Condon’s skill set has earned comparisons to former major leaguers known for their speed, defensive instincts, and aggressive playing style. Among the names mentioned were Brett Gardner, Sal Frelick, and former Philadelphia Phillies All-Star Lenny Dykstra. Scouts have reportedly been impressed not only by Condon’s raw tools, but also by the energy and intensity he brings to the game.
One of the most attractive parts of Condon’s profile is his ability to remain in center field long term. Evaluators believe his advanced instincts, defensive awareness, and speed should allow him to handle the demanding position at the professional level. Players capable of sticking in center field while contributing offensively are always highly valued, which helps explain why his draft stock has continued to surge in recent months.
While Condon offers plenty of strengths, there is still one area of his game scouts would like to see develop further: in-game power. According to reports, he has shown impressive raw power during batting practice sessions and has demonstrated the ability to drive balls deep over the fence. However, teams would like to see that power production translate more consistently during live game action.
Even so, the overall package remains highly intriguing. The combination of athleticism, speed, defensive upside, and advanced hitting ability makes Condon one of the more exciting prep prospects in this year’s class.
For the Rangers, selecting another high school player early in the draft would continue a growing trend toward prioritizing upside and long-term development. If Condon is still available at No. 16, Texas may find it difficult to pass on one of the fastest-rising talents in the 2026 MLB Draft.
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