A Milestone for Longwood Baseball
Jackson Nash, a junior right‑handed pitcher from Longwood University, was selected by the Texas Rangers in the 12th round of the 2026 MLB Draft, marking the first Longwood player to be drafted since 2024.
Hailing from Monroe, North Carolina, Nash closed out his college season with a 4‑2 record and a 4.26 ERA, striking out 59 batters while walking just 18. His late‑season surge earned him Big South Reliever of the Week honors on Feb. 17, and he did not surrender an earned run in five of his final six appearances.
The Rangers’ selection not only underscores Nash’s rising profile but also places him among the most notable draft picks in Longwood history, ranking as the third‑highest pick ever from the program and the 12th overall Longwood player ever chosen in the MLB draft.
Longwood University, located in Farmville, Virginia, has seen a resurgence in its baseball program, and Nash’s draft status reflects the growing pipeline of talent emerging from the Big South Conference. The university’s athletic department celebrated the achievement, highlighting the player’s dedication and the program’s upward trajectory.
Nash’s journey from a high school standout in North Carolina to a professional prospect drafted by a storied franchise like the Texas Rangers illustrates the increasing competitiveness of mid‑major college baseball. As he prepares to embark on his professional career, the baseball community will be watching closely how his skill set translates to the minor leagues.