The Major League Baseball (MLB) Draft, officially known as the First-Year Player Draft, is one of the most extensive and unique drafts in all of professional sports. Unlike the NFL or NBA drafts, which are relatively short and concise, the MLB Draft spans several days and includes a significantly larger number of selections. But exactly how many picks are in the MLB Draft?
Total Number of Picks in the MLB Draft
In 2025, the MLB Draft consists of 20 rounds, with a total of 614 picks. The total number can vary slightly each year due to compensatory picks and Competitive Balance selections.
Here’s a breakdown of how those picks are structured:
Breakdown of the MLB Draft Picks
| Category | Number of Picks (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Regular Picks (Rounds 1–20) | ~600 |
| Competitive Balance Round A & B | ~14–16 |
| Compensatory Picks | Varies (~5–10) |
| Total (Including All Rounds & Extras) | ~610–620 |
Types of Additional Picks Explained
- Competitive Balance Rounds: These are awarded to small-market and low-revenue teams to help them remain competitive. These picks occur after the first round (Round A) and after the second round (Round B).
- Compensatory Picks: Awarded to teams that lose qualifying free agents or fail to sign draft picks from the previous year.
How the Draft Has Changed Over Time
Historically, the MLB Draft included as many as 40 or even 50 rounds. However, starting in 2021, MLB officially shortened the draft to 20 rounds to streamline the process and improve efficiency. This new format continues into the 2025 draft and beyond.
Why the MLB Draft Is So Large
- Player Development Pipeline: Unlike other sports, MLB players often spend years developing in the minor leagues before reaching the majors. This requires a large pool of prospects.
- Organizational Depth: Teams need to fill out various levels of minor league rosters, from Rookie ball to Triple-A, hence the need for more draftees.
Final Thoughts
With over 600 picks, the MLB Draft remains the largest among major North American sports leagues. Its structure is designed not only to bring in top-tier talent but also to build long-term depth across all levels of an organization. Whether you’re a fan, scout, or aspiring player, understanding the scale of the draft reveals how important and intricate MLB’s development system truly is.