Jensen Hirschkorn, a 6‑foot‑7 right‑handed pitcher from Kingsburg, California, was chosen by the Atlanta Braves in the third round of the 2026 MLB Draft. The selection marks the second LSU prospect from the class to hear his name called, underscoring the program's continued impact on the professional game.
A High‑Profile Prospect
Known for a fastball that consistently reaches 97 mph, Hirschkorn was ranked No. 56 among the draft class's top prospects. His slot value of $973,000 reflects the Braves' confidence in his potential to contribute at the major‑league level.
Joining Hirschkorn in the draft was fellow LSU signee Logan Schmidt, further illustrating the depth of talent emerging from the university's 2026 cohort.
Coach Expects More Departures
LSU head coach Jay Johnson acknowledged that the program anticipates losing multiple signees to the MLB each year, a trend that has become a hallmark of the school's player development model.
Teams typically reserve top‑100 picks for players they project to transition quickly to professional competition, a strategy that aligns with the Braves' approach to Hirschkorn and Schmidt.
Looking Ahead
As Hirschkorn prepares to sign his first professional contract, the Braves will integrate his size, velocity and poise into a pitching staff that values high‑upside arms. The move not only bolsters Atlanta's rotation but also reinforces LSU's reputation as a fertile ground for future MLB talent.