MLB could award a record three Prospect Promotion Incentive (PPI) draft picks in 2027. Guardians rookie Parker Messick’s top-three finish in American League Cy Young voting guarantees Cleveland a pick after the first round, while the National League Rookie of the Year winner will secure another for their team. Detroit would add a third if Kevin McGonigle wins AL Rookie of the Year.
By the Numbers15 rookies qualified for PPI eligibility in 2026.5 of 6 Rookie of the Year finalists are PPI-eligible.Previous PPI picks have ranged from No. 26 to No. 32 and carried up to $3.5 million in bonus-pool money.Only 1 PPI pick has reached the majors so far: Ryan Waldschmidt, who debuted in 2026. Yes, But
McGonigle must win AL Rookie of the Year to earn Detroit a pick; a runner-up finish won’t count. And the program’s future is uncertain: PPI may not continue after this season unless it is included in the next collective bargaining agreement.
State of PlayCleveland is guaranteed a pick because Messick finished among the top three in AL Cy Young voting.A National League team is also guaranteed a pick: the Mets, Reds or Cardinals, depending on which finalist wins NL Rookie of the Year.Detroit could make it three if McGonigle wins AL Rookie of the Year. What’s Next
Rookie of the Year results will determine whether the 2027 draft has two PPI picks or a record three. The next collective bargaining agreement will determine whether the incentive continues beyond this season.
Bottom Line
Messick’s award finalist status has already secured Cleveland a valuable draft pick; the Rookie of the Year winners will decide which other clubs benefit—and whether 2027 sets a new PPI record.