Draft Withdrawals and Signing Bonuses
As the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft draws near, the Texas Longhorns find themselves at a crossroads. Several of the program’s most highly touted prospects have elected to step away from the draft, choosing instead to preserve their college eligibility.
Among those who have withdrawn are pitcher Cooper Webb, right‑hander Trey Rangel and left‑hander Phinn Beaird. Webb, a four‑star arm from Lake Travis, measured 6‑3 and 190 pounds, while Rangel sits in the top ten of Texas pitchers at 6‑1, 185 pounds. Beaird, the second‑best left‑hander in Tennessee, stands 6 feet tall and weighs 185 pounds.
The decision to skip the draft is not uncommon; high‑round selections often command signing bonuses that can exceed a million dollars, a financial lure that many families weigh against the uncertain timeline of professional development.
Coach Schlossnagle’s Roster Plans
Coach Jim Schlossnagle, celebrated for his recruiting acumen, says the returning core will feature players such as Anthony Pack Jr., Adrian Rodriguez, Dylan Volantis and Sam Cozart. Their presence is expected to keep Texas competitive in the upcoming season.
First‑Round Highlights
Four UT commits were drafted on the first day, a testament to the program’s depth. Highlighting that group is Grady Emerson, a Fort Worth native ranked among the nation’s top ten hitters, who was selected second overall by the Tampa Bay Rays.
The draft’s final sixteen rounds will commence at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, offering additional opportunities for players who may still be looking to sign.