The Boston Red Sox continued adding to their 2026 draft class by signing ninth-round pick Martin Shelar to a reported $1.5 million bonus, according to MassLive's Chris Cotillo. The deal is well above the slot value for the selection and reflects Boston's determination to keep the talented high school outfielder from honoring his commitment to Mississippi State.
Shelar entered the draft as one of the more intriguing prep power bats available. While many evaluators believed his college commitment could push him down the board, the Red Sox created enough bonus pool flexibility to secure his signature.
The 18-year-old from Marist School in Georgia impressed scouts throughout the draft process with his combination of size, athleticism and elite raw power. He reportedly hit more than .500 with 19 home runs during his senior season and recorded a 115.5 mph exit velocity at the MLB Draft Combine, one of the best marks in his class.
Boston was able to make the signing after saving bonus pool money on first-round pick Jake Schaffner, who agreed to an under-slot deal. The strategy allowed chief baseball officer Craig Breslow to take an aggressive approach later in the draft.
Shelar now joins a farm system that continues to emphasize high-upside position players. His power potential gives the Red Sox another intriguing developmental prospect, even if he may require several years in the minor leagues.
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
The signing also comes as Boston looks toward the future while navigating a difficult 2026 season. Entering the second half, the Red Sox owned a 46-48 record and sat third in the American League East, making continued investment in young talent a priority.
If Shelar develops as expected, the overslot investment could prove to be one of the organization's most valuable draft decisions. The Red Sox clearly viewed his upside as worth the financial commitment required to keep him from college baseball.
ALSO SEE:
- Home Run Predictions Today: Best MLB HR Prop Bets for Friday, July 17
- NRFI and YRFI MLB Bets Today: Best First-Inning Predictions for Friday, July 17
