Miami Marlins select SS Kahlil Watson No. 16 Overall in 2021 MLB Draft

The Miami Marlins have now officially made their pick in the first round of the 2021 MLB Draft.

Did the team get it right? Did they go after a position group of need? As you’ll see by the selection made, this player has the potential to be a major piece of the Marlins organization going forward.

The Miami Marlins select SS Kahlil Watson No. 16 overall in the 2021 MLB Draft.

The Marlins have selected shortstop Kahlil Watson (Wake Forest, NC) with the No. 16 overall pick in the first round of the 2021 MLB Draft.

Watson is rated as the No. 4 overall prospect in this draft according to MLB Pipeline with one of the best pure skill-sets of any player available. Currently committed to NC State, the Marlins have the capability to go over-slot to sign the 18-year old shortstop.

Watson’s skill-set alone had him considered in the running for the No. 1 overall pick in this draft going into Sunday night. His left-handed swing packs both power and consistent contact, and was considered one of the best in the draft, while he also displays elite-level speed on the basepaths. Watson is a phenomenal defensive shortstop, but also has the ability to play multiple positions on the infield as well.

When looking at the first round overall, you could certainly make the case that this is the steal of the 2021 MLB Draft. Watson’s elite skill-set gives Miami their 100% shortstop of the future, which will also allow the club to keep Jazz Chisholm at second base long-term giving the Marlins one of the best young middle infields duos in the game.

Watson now becomes of the best overall prospects in the Marlins organization from day one. It certainly appears that the Marlins got one of the best overall players in this draft, and will be an impact player for Miami for years to come.

Now that the Miami Marlins have selected Watson with the No. 16 overall pick, the attention now turns to the next selection at No. 31 overall (Competitive Balance Round A). After already having added a shortstop, there are still notable positions to target going forward, with catcher most-likely.