The MLB Draft is where franchises build their future, and the Baltimore Orioles, picking seventh overall this summer, have a critical decision to make. With a recent history of successful college picks like Adley Rutschman and Jackson Holliday, the organization is projected to stay that course.

According to a recent Bleacher Report mock draft, the Orioles are expected to select Virginia outfielder AJ Garcia, a powerful bat who could quickly energize the lineup at Camden Yards.

Garcia, a transfer from Duke, has been a force at Virginia this spring, slashing an impressive .324/.475/.596 with 10 home runs in 37 games. His elite plate discipline and left-handed power swing make him one of the most polished offensive players in this draft class, a true plug-and-play bat for a team on the rise.

While his defensive home is debated—with some scouts seeing a future in left field rather than center—there's no question about the impact his bat could have. For a Baltimore team looking to add another cornerstone hitter to its young core, Garcia represents a thrilling and logical fit.