A historic draft milestone
Florida State’s baseball program celebrated a watershed moment as the 2026 MLB Draft produced seven Seminoles selections, the first instance in school history of at least seven players being drafted in three consecutive years.
Wes Mendes became the first name called, going 57th overall to the Houston Astros, while Myles Bailey followed at 75th to the Chicago Cubs. Both prospects expressed excitement about joining professional systems that have shown faith in their abilities.
The draft also highlighted the program’s depth, with eight players taken in the first two rounds under head coach Link Jarrett, underscoring a sustained pipeline of talent that has drawn attention from clubs across the league.
Pitcher John Abraham, a senior standout, was not selected, a surprise that clears the way for him to return for his final collegiate season and pursue a national championship.
Top incoming recruits Landon Thome and Kaden Waechter were both chosen in the opening rounds, but industry insiders expect the duo to forgo college and sign professional contracts, a decision that reflects the growing allure of immediate earnings and development.
The ripple effect extends beyond Tallahassee, influencing scouting strategies and prompting several clubs, including the Arizona Diamondbacks, Miami Marlins, Pittsburgh Pirates, Tampa Bay Rays and Cincinnati Reds, to intensify their interest in FSU talent.
As the draft class moves toward signing, the university’s athletic department and its supporters watch closely, hopeful that this wave of professional opportunities will translate into continued success on the field and reinforce the program’s reputation as a breeding ground for major‑league prospects.