Mississippi is poised to make a significant impact in the 2025 MLB Draft, with two standout prospects—shortstop JoJo Parker from Purvis High School and JB Middleton from Southern Miss—garnering national attention. Both players are projected as first-round picks in MLB Pipeline’s latest mock draft, with Parker projected, going as high as 12 to the Rangers. While Middleton was projected to go 22nd to the Braves.
JoJo Parker: Purvis’ Power Hitting Shortstop
JoJo Parker, a 6-foot-2, 195-pound shortstop from Purvis High School, has rapidly ascended draft boards this year. In MLB Pipeline’s May 6 mock draft, the Mississippi State commit is projected to be selected 12th overall by the Texas Rangers . His offensive prowess is a key factor in his rise, with scouts noting his potential as a plus hitter with solid power. Parker’s swing is described as loose and fluid, generating impressive bat speed and exit velocities. Defensively, while he has primarily played shortstop, some evaluations suggest he may transition to second or third base at the professional level due to average quickness and actions. His twin brother, Jacob, is also a notable prospect, adding to the Parker family’s impressive baseball pedigree .
JB Middleton: Southern Miss Ace Rising on Draft Boards
Right hander JB Middleton has emerged as one of the top college arms in the 2025 draft class. Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing 180 pounds, Middleton features a fastball that sits between 93-95 mph and can reach up to 97 mph. His arsenal also includes a sharp upper-80s slider and a changeup in the mid-to-upper 80s, both of which have drawn praise from scouts. As of last week he had the lowest ERA of draft eligible pitchers at (1.86).
Middleton’s transition from a reliever to a starter in 2025 has been marked by significant improvements in command and consistency. His performance has elevated him into first-round consideration, with projections placing him as high as 22nd overall in recent mock drafts . His development reflects the strength of Southern Miss’s pitching program and Middleton’s dedication to refining his craft
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