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MLB teams now face new competition for talent: college programs awash with money

The article from The Athletic discusses the evolving landscape of college baseball in relation to Major League Baseball (MLB) due to the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. It highlights how college athletes can now profit from their personal brand, which has led to increased competition for talent between college programs and MLB teams. The piece explores how this shift is affecting MLB draft strategies, with teams now considering the financial incentives players might receive in college when deciding whether to draft them or encourage them to attend college. Additionally, it touches on the potential changes in the draft structure, the impact on player development, and how college coaches are adapting to this new era where financial offers can sway a player's decision to turn pro or stay in school. The article also speculates on future implications for both college baseball and MLB, including potential rule changes and the overall competitive balance.

Read the Full The New York Times Article at:
[ https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5969723/2024/12/05/mlb-college-baseball-nil-draft-competition/ ]