MLB is full of unique and rare moments — records are broken and set every day, home runs grab headlines, and fans are constantly treated to memorable plays. But seeing three former No. 1 overall draft picks all involved in the same at-bat is far from common, and it’s definitely worth watching.
It happened during Game 2 of the series between the Pirates and Cubs, a game Pittsburgh won 2–1. Paul Skenes was on the mound — one of the three former No. 1 picks who made this moment special.
Another former top pick involved was Pirates catcher Henry Davis, now in his third season with the team. He’s expected to get more opportunities as a starter this year.
Who was the third former No. 1 pick?
As Skenes and Davis did their jobs on the battery, up to bat came Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson, the third piece of this rare MLB moment. Swanson managed just one RBI in the game and is now batting .238 on the season. The moment was highlighted by Codify and Baseball Reference.
Was this the first time three former No. 1 picks met in one at-bat?
No — it’s happened before. In fact, a similar moment occurred recently when Skenes and Davis faced Bryce Harper, another former No. 1 overall pick, during a Pirates-Phillies series.
At least the series is now tied after the key moment involving the three former picks. The Pirates have a chance to secure another win, adding to their strong 7-3 record over the last ten games.
