Day 1 of the 2025 MLB Draft brought significant talent to Southern League teams, promising an exciting future for fans, especially those of the Knoxville Smokies. The Chicago Cubs selected Ethan Conrad with the 17th pick, a powerful outfielder whose .372 batting average and 27 RBIs last season have fans eagerly anticipating his arrival. Other notable picks included Tate Southisene by the Atlanta Braves, who earned recognition for his stellar high school performance, and Billy Carlson, a versatile talent drafted by the Chicago White Sox. The talent pool this year suggests a competitive landscape in Double-A baseball.

Among the picks, Steele Hall by the Cincinnati Reds stands out, with his impressive speed and power making him a player to watch. The Los Angeles Angels focused on pitching, selecting Tyler Bremner and Nate Snead, both of whom showed potential in college. The Miami Marlins also made a splash by drafting shortstop Aiva Arquette. This year's draft indicates a bright future for the Smokies, as many of these players could soon don their uniform.

The St. Louis Cardinals made a significant move in the 2025 MLB Draft by selecting Tennessee Volunteers pitcher Liam Doyle with the fifth overall pick. Doyle, who boasted a 10-4 record with a 3.20 ERA and 164 strikeouts in 95.2 innings, has drawn comparisons to Atlanta Braves ace Spencer Strider, particularly due to his fastball that has reached up to 100 mph. As he transitions from college to the pros, Doyle is touted for his ability to throw strikes and his repertoire that includes a splitter and slider.

Strider, who recently returned from Tommy John surgery, has experienced ups and downs but is noted for his command and stamina. If Doyle can replicate Strider's success while addressing concerns about his command, he could potentially become a dominant force in the MLB. The Cardinals are looking for a franchise cornerstone, and Doyle might just be the answer.

The 2024 MLB Home Run Derby promises to be an exciting event with a new format aimed at enhancing the experience for fans and participants alike. This year marks the 39th edition of the Derby, taking place at Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves. The updated format introduces an open three-minute hitting session followed by a bonus phase, where contestants can earn extra outs for home runs exceeding 425 feet. This twist is intended to add more strategy and excitement to the competition.

Despite the thrilling changes to the event, the broadcast itself has faced backlash from viewers who criticized ESPN's coverage. Complaints ranged from awkward camera angles to the presence of Pat McAfee as host, with fans expressing their disappointment over what should be a straightforward presentation of the home run action. Many viewers noted the need for better visual presentation, emphasizing that showcasing home runs should be simple, yet it has proven to be a challenge for the network.

The 2025 MLB Home Run Derby at Truist Park brought excitement but was marred by ESPN's poor broadcasting decisions. Fans were vocal on social media, criticizing the camera angles and overall presentation of the beloved event. The Home Run Derby, typically a highlight of the MLB calendar, felt neglected, sparking significant backlash from viewers expecting a seamless and entertaining experience. ESPN's struggles in this instance highlight the challenges even seasoned networks face in delivering the fan experience.

Brody Fowler, the standout pitcher from Eastside, was selected by the Atlanta Braves as the 517th overall pick in the 17th round of the 2025 MLB Draft. The talented right-hander, a redshirt sophomore from North Greenville University, has the option to return for another season if he does not sign with the Braves. Fowler’s impressive statistics from the 2025 season included a 3.33 ERA and a total of 90 strikeouts, showcasing his ability to dominate on the mound, where he achieved a remarkable ten strikeouts in a single game.

Standing tall at 6-foot-7 and weighing 240 pounds, Fowler's athleticism is a significant factor in his pitching prowess. His high school career was nothing short of stellar, earning him All-State honors twice and recognition as the 4A Pitcher of the Year during his senior year. As Fowler embarks on his potential professional career, the Braves are adding a promising talent who has already made a name for himself at the collegiate level.