A Promising Arm Heads to New York
Luke McNeillie, a junior right‑handed pitcher from Milton, Georgia, was selected by the New York Mets in the fifth round of the 2026 MLB Draft, marking the fourth time a Gator has been chosen in this year's draft.
His collegiate career at the University of Florida has been defined by steady improvement, with each season yielding a lower earned run average than the previous one.
During his junior year he posted a 3.97 ERA over 18 appearances, striking out 48 batters while walking only 17, which translates to a 12.7 strikeouts per nine innings ratio and a 2.82 strikeout‑to‑walk ratio.
He also limited opponents to under one home run per nine innings, surrendering just 0.8 HR/9, and fielded his position without error, turning all five chances into perfect plays.
A Consistent Performer in the Gators Rotation
Across three seasons McNeillie appeared in 72 games, compiling a 12‑8 record, four saves and a career ERA of 5.24, while maintaining a perfect fielding percentage of 1.000.
His reliability on the mound contributed to Florida's depth, helping the program produce multiple draft prospects under head coach Kevin O'Sullivan.
The draft selection adds to a series of recent successes for the Gators, with McNeillie joining a lineage of players drafted by clubs such as the Cleveland Guardians, Milwaukee Brewers and Los Angeles Dodgers.
The New York Mets will now evaluate him for potential assignment to their minor‑league system, where his strikeout ability and low home‑run rate could make him a valuable asset.