Indiana University's baseball program is gaining attention as outfielder Devin Taylor is projected as a potential first-round pick in the 2025 MLB Draft. This buzz marks a significant moment for the Hoosiers, who haven't seen a player drafted in the first round in over a decade. The last Indiana player to achieve this milestone was Kyle Schwarber, who was selected fourth overall in 2014.

ESPN's latest "MLB Experts Mock Draft" has Taylor going No. 24 overall to the Detroit Tigers. ESPN's David Schoenfield noted Taylor's impressive stats, including a .374 batting average, a .494 on-base percentage, and a .706 slugging percentage, along with 18 home runs and a significant number of walks. While Taylor is primarily limited to corner outfield positions, his bat speed, strength, and performance in the Cape Cod League have made him a prospect to watch. However, scouts have expressed some concern regarding Taylor's high strikeout rate in the Cape Cod League.

Taylor's potential first-round selection is more than just an individual achievement; it signifies a potential resurgence for Indiana baseball on the national stage. After a long wait, Taylor has the chance to be the first Indiana player to have his name called in the first round.

The 2025 MLB Draft is generating buzz with several top prospects vying for the coveted first-round spots. High school shortstops Ethan Holliday and Eli Willits, along with college left-handed pitchers Kade Anderson, Jamie Arnold, and Liam Doyle, are among the top contenders. Right-handed pitcher Seth Hernandez and Oregon State shortstop Aiva Arquette are also in the mix.

ESPN will nationally broadcast the first round of the 2025 MLB Draft on July 13, originating from the Coca-Cola Roxy in Atlanta. Veteran ESPN MLB voice Karl Ravech will host the coverage, joined by analysts including Jeff Passan and Kiley McDaniel.

Other potential first-round prospects include Auburn outfielder/catcher Ike Irish and Arizona outfielder Brendan Summerhill. The upcoming Men's College World Series is expected to further highlight potential first-rounders.

Several high school prospects are also garnering attention, including right-handed pitcher Seth Hernandez and shortstop Billy Carlson from Corona Senior High School in California, as well as Mississippi shortstop JoJo Parker and Texas shortstop Kayson Cunningham. These players participated in the MLB Draft Combine, showcasing their skills through on-field, medical, and performance assessments.

Indiana baseball's recruiting class for 2025 is ranked among the top 15 nationally. The class includes nationally ranked arms, such as Blane Metz, the highest-ranked pitcher to sign with the Hoosiers since at least 2009.