The Chicago Cubs made a surprise move in the fifth round of the 2026 MLB draft, selecting right‑handed pitcher Dylan Blomker out of New Mexico.
Blomker, a 2026 Gatorade Player of the Year in his home state, attended La Cuerva High School where he honed a fastball that reaches 96 mph and a sharp slider.
Although unranked by MLB.com and ESPN, the pick attracted attention because Blomker had committed to Louisiana State University and was expected to join the Tigers.
A Unexpected Pick
The organization assigned a slot value of $441,300 to the selection, a figure that reflects the slot for the 138th overall pick, and the Cubs anticipate he will sign rather than pursue his college career.
His addition brings the total number of LSU signees drafted this year to four, underscoring the impact of the Tigers’ recent talent pipeline on the professional draft.
The Cubs join a growing list of teams that have leveraged advanced scouting and data analytics to uncover hidden gems, a strategy that has paid dividends in recent seasons.
Fans and analysts alike will watch closely as Blomker transitions from the collegiate ranks to the minor leagues, hoping the right‑hander can translate his high‑velocity repertoire into major‑league success.