The Detroit Tigers have been one of baseball’s most consistent teams this season. They have been a great all-around team, holding the best record in the American League and holding a 10.5-game lead over the Kansas City Royals in the AL Central.
They are well on their way to another postseason appearance. However, while much of the attention is on the rest of this season, some cannot help but look into the future.
Bleacher Report’s Joel Reuter has come out with his early mock draft for 2026, and connects Henry Ford to the Tigers. Ford is a hard-hitting former University of Virginia outfielder who will be suiting up for the University of Tennessee this upcoming season.
“Ford is arguably the top player in the transfer portal this summer after he was not selected in the 2025 draft due to bonus demand expectations, and after two years at Virginia, he will head to Tennessee for his junior season. He hit .362/.420/.575 with 21 extra-base hits in 50 games as a sophomore, and put together a solid run in the Cape Cod League this summer.”
Henry Ford’s decision to return to college could hurt him
The decision for hitters to return to college for their junior season comes with some risk. For example, Jalin Flores returned to Texas in his junior year, slipping into the 11th round after being ranked the No. 114 best draft-eligible prospect.
With not much speed or an excellent arm, Ford’s excitement comes with his bat. He will have to be a force at the plate if he wants to improve his draft stock in 2026.
