Peter Aiken-Imagn Images

Red Sox Predicted to Replace Trevor Story With Young Star

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nelson Hubbell | Last updated Jun 13, 2025 4:10 PM ET

After taking Texas A&M outfielder Braden Montgomery in the first round of the 2024 MLB Draft, the Boston Red Sox are expected to make a splash drafting a high school infielder this year.

Mike Axisa of CBS Sports predicted that the Red Sox, picking 15th overall, would take shortstop Daniel Pierce out of Mill Creek High School in Hoschton, Georgia.

"Pierce fits the mold of recent Red Sox picks (Roman Anthony, Kristian Campbell, Kyle Teel, Marcelo Mayer, etc.) as a player with a mature approach, burgeoning pop, and a history of performing well against elite competition in showcase events," Axisa wrote.

Pierce stands about 6'1" and 185lbs, bats and throws righty, and will turn 19 in August. He grades out at 55 overall made up of a 60 hit tool, 50 power, 60 run, 55 arm and 55 fielding. He is currently committed to the University of Georgia.

Right now MLB.com has Pierce listed as the 18th ranked prospect in the draft. That means this pick is right about on part with his ranking, but also may be a little higher because of an eventual need at the position. Trevor Story will be 33 this year and drafting a high school prospect means it will take at least 2-3 years before Pierce is MLB ready.

Here is how Baseball Focus described the prospect:

"Pierce is an athlete before anything, and it shows on the field. Strong, lean build with a wide frame and room to grow. He supposedly put on a sizable amount of muscle during the offseason and has expressed the desire to get even bigger to add power... It’s tough to single out Pierce’s best tool as he’s a plus hitter, defender, and baserunner."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: