Jensen Hirschkorn, a highly touted right‑handed pitcher from the 2026 high school class, was selected 84th overall by the Atlanta Braves in the third round of the 2026 MLB Draft. The pick underscores the Braves' confidence in the young arm despite his verbal commitment to Louisiana State University.
Scouts have long praised Hirschkorn for his fastball that consistently sits in the mid‑95 mph range and can touch 96 mph, a velocity that places him among the elite high school prospects. In addition to his fastball, he displays a polished three‑pitch mix that includes a sharp slider and a changeup, giving him a well‑rounded repertoire that analysts believe could develop into triple‑digit speed with proper conditioning.
Scouting Outlook
Analysts project that, if Hirschkorn signs, he will likely begin his professional career in the Braves' rookie or low‑A affiliate, where the organization can carefully manage his workload while accelerating his fastball development. The team's pitching director, Jay Johnson, has indicated that the club sees Hirschkorn as a potential frontline starter, noting that the pitcher's mechanical refinements could unlock even higher velocity in the coming years.
LSU, meanwhile, has already fortified its 2026 roster by securing five additional right‑handed pitchers: Cooper Sides, Dylan Blomker, Kolby Stringer, Coleton Brady, and Braydon Wisener. The Tigers' coaching staff, led by pitching coach Nate Yeskie, emphasized that while losing Hirschkorn is a setback, the class remains among the nation's most competitive.
Hirschkorn's decision to forgo college baseball and pursue a professional contract reflects a growing trend among top prospects who view the MLB draft as a more direct path to the majors. If the agreement materializes, it will mark a significant addition to the Braves' pitching pipeline and could accelerate the club's plans to replenish its farm system with high‑velocity arms.