A high‑velocity prospect signs with the Guardians
Logan Schmidt, a left‑handed pitcher from Ganesha, California, was chosen with the 45th overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft by the Cleveland Guardians. The selection comes with a projected slot value of $1.60 million, reflecting the team’s confidence in the prospect’s upside.
Schmidt’s fastball has already shown a noticeable jump, climbing from 94 mph to 97 mph over the summer. That velocity gain, combined with a polished repertoire, placed him among the top 10 recruits in the 2026 class and the 45th best prospect overall.
LSU coach Jay Johnson had warned that the program could lose as many as six to eight of its 24 signed players to professional opportunities. Schmidt is one of several arms the Tigers will watch head elsewhere, leaving the roster with five left‑handed pitchers, only three of whom logged meaningful innings last season.
The Guardians’ decision underscores a broader trend of elite college talent opting for early professional contracts. Schmidt will now transition to the minor leagues, where he is expected to sign and begin his professional career rather than suit up for LSU.