FanPulse: Plenty of questions surround the upcoming MLB Draft

Welcome to SB Nation FanPulse, a survey of fans across MLB. Each week, we send 30 polls to plugged in fans from each team. Astros fans, sign up HERE to join FanPulse.

The ongoing pandemic only drove the demand higher for the recently completed 2020 NFL Draft in light of sporting events on nearly the entire planet stopping in its tracks. Although the event was unable to take place live in Las Vegas as originally planned, the online version of the draft was generally well-received by the public. The upcoming 2020 MLB Draft probably won’t receive the same warm response, especially once the ramifications of its various changes to its structure are fully appreciated by the public.

For one, there may only be five to ten rounds in this year’s draft, which is an extraordinary measure for an event that has forty-plus rounds in recent history. Bonuses for undrafted players are also likely to be limited. If these alterations to the draft model hold, it will surely cause a large disruption in how both the MLB and NCAA operate at the amateur level. Players will have to navigate a much different labor landscape coming out of high school or college.

This week’s FanPulse presents some pressing questions to consider in wake of these potential changes. First, should players even bother entering the upcoming 2020 MLB Draft?

How will these changes affect high school seniors, who may be on the bubble about entering the collegiate ranks or trying to make a name for themselves in professional baseball?

Would the MLB and NCAA consider allowing current high school seniors enter the draft after just one year at their post-secondary institution?

Lastly, what about an extra year of eligibility in college for players? That extra year carries a lot of weight, especially for players who may not be taken early in the draft.