Red Sox mock draft points to Bo Lowrance in 2026

In ESPN’s first two 2026 MLB mock drafts, Kiley McDaniel has the Boston Red Sox selecting South Carolina third baseman Bo Lowrance—an 18-year-old projected first-round pick—at No. 20 on July 11. McDaniel’s scouting notes cite Freddie Freeman comparisons and a

For Red Sox fans bracing for another season that hasn’t gone their way, the draft feels like a rare kind of escape—one where a single name can carry the hope of a turnaround.

In ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel’s first two 2026 MLB mock drafts. Boston keeps showing up on the same player: Bo Lowrance. an 18-year-old third baseman from South Carolina. Lowrance is who McDaniel has predicted the Red Sox will select in his second-straight mock draft. with Boston taking him at No. 20 on July 11, the first day of the draft.

McDaniel’s rationale is built around what scouts already see. Lowrance has been the subject of “more than a few scouts” drawing comparisons between him and Freddie Freeman. a three-time World Series champion and nine-time All-Star who debuted in 2010 and has been among the most steady hitters in baseball ever since.

Lowrance’s profile is already detailed enough to fuel that hype: he stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 200 pounds and is a projected first-round selection. He attended Christ Church Episcopal High School. He bats left-handed and is committed to playing baseball at the University of Virginia.

In MLB.com’s scouting report on Lowrance, the emphasis is on his approach and bat-to-ball consistency. The report says he has a “smooth left-handed stroke” and a track record of delivering against quality competition on the showcase circuit. It also says he doesn’t try to do too much. making consistent contact to all fields despite “naturally long levers” tied to his 6-foot-5 frame.

The same report also points to the adjustment he’ll likely need as he moves up: while he has a projectable build. it says he “doesn’t have explosive bat speed. ” and he doesn’t lift and pull many pitches at this point. MLB.com adds that he will need to add strength and make changes to reach “20-homer power.”.

There’s also a positional question hanging over the promise. MLB.com wrote that Lowrance could switch to first base because there are concerns about him continuing to play third.

In McDaniel’s mock draft sequence, the player taken right after Lowrance is Bishop Feehan flamethrower Brody Bumila, with the San Diego Padres selecting him at 21st overall.

Even with the attention, Lowrance has sounded grounded. In comments provided to South Carolina’s “High School Sports Report. ” he said he feels lucky to be in consideration for a first-round pick. “It’s a pretty special situation to be in right now as a baseball player,” Lowrance told the outlet. He said. “This time a year ago I did not think I would be in this position. ” and added that he is “humbled” to be in consideration for a first-round selection. calling it “a dream come true.”.

His high school coach. Brian Simpson. offered a similar view of the day-to-day traits that help prospects stand out without needing theatrics. Simpson said. via Christ Church Episcopal’s website. “He shows up every day. he’s engaged. and he practices the right way.” He added. “He doesn’t separate himself as a better player. He’s humble.”.

For now, the Red Sox remain in a losing season. But on the calendar, July 11 is approaching—close enough that one mock draft slot can start to feel like a door opening.

Boston Red Sox MLB Draft 2026 Bo Lowrance Kiley McDaniel Freddie Freeman comparisons University of Virginia Christ Church Episcopal High School