The Draft Night Move
Jared Grindlinger, a Tennessee baseball commit, was selected with the 12th overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft by the Los Angeles Angels. The pick carries a slot value of $5,889,300, a sum that makes a college departure all but inevitable.
Grindlinger had pledged to the University of Tennessee on April 1, but after reclassifying from the 2027 cohort he entered the draft as one of the most coveted prospects. Ranked No. 16 by MLB Pipeline and No. 5 by Perfect Game, he is considered one of the highest‑upside players in his class.
A two‑way standout at Huntington Beach High School, he batted .376 with two home runs and 22 RBIs while also posting a 0.85 ERA and 66 strikeouts over 57.1 innings on the mound. His blend of power, speed and defensive versatility drew praise from scouts across the league.
The Angels will now negotiate a contract that could reshape their outfield plans. The slot value attached to the 12th pick reflects the team’s willingness to invest heavily in a player they view as a cornerstone for the future.
Grindlinger was one of 11 Tennessee signees invited to the MLB draft combine, highlighting the depth of the Volunteers’ recruiting class. With the signing expected to be finalized shortly, the university will look to fill the void left by his departure.