D-backs targeting 2nd generation MLB players in latest ESPN mock draft

After finishing an abysmal 52-110 last season, the Arizona Diamondbacks hold the No. 2 overall pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, which is set to take place July 17-19 in Los Angeles.

This year’s draft features the sons of many former MLB players, with the consensus best prospect being Vanderbilt commit Druw Jones, son of former big leaguer Andruw Jones.

The Baltimore Orioles currently hold the top pick, and if they take anyone outside of Jones, the Diamondbacks would certainly be licking their chops to get Jones to Arizona.

But there could be another former major leaguer’s son on the board even if Baltimore lands Druw Jones.

MLB insider Kiley McDaniel’s 2023 MLB mock draft has the D-backs selecting Jackson Holliday, son of former big leaguer Matt Holliday, out of Stillwater High School in Oklahoma.

Jackson Holliday is a lengthy and athletic shortstop, who is already committed to playing at Oklahoma State.

In 40 games this spring, Jackson Holliday had a .685 batting average with 17 home runs and 79 RBIs.

The Diamondbacks also hold a competitive balance round A pick at No. 34 overall and McDaniel has the D-backs selecting third baseman Max Wagner out of Clemson.

Wagner hit .370 with 66 runs, 15 doubles, 27 homers and 76 RBIs in 58 games this past season for the Tigers.

The D-backs are already surpassing expectations this year as they find themselves treading water in a competitive NL West.

Arizona has hovered near .500 after a strong May with a plethora of young talent on the roster such as Alek Thomas (22 years old), Daulton Varsho (25) and Geraldo Perdomo (22) —  not to mention that the Diamondbacks have 28-year-old All-Star second baseman Ketal Marte locked up for the next five years.