Draft Highlights
The 2026 MLB Draft brought a fresh wave of Big South Conference talent, with four players hearing their names called across the first 16 rounds, each representing a different college program that has built a reputation for developing major‑league‑ready arms.
Texas Rangers selected Jackson Nash in the 12th round with the 357th overall pick, marking the third‑highest draft position ever for a Longwood prospect and the twelfth Lancers player ever drafted.
Cincinnati Reds drafted Ray Ladd in the 14th round at the 422nd spot, recognizing his 3‑1 record and 4.68 ERA after a season in which he started all 15 appearances for the Highlanders.
San Diego Padres chose Ty Brachbill in the 14th round as the 425th overall pick, honoring his 11‑2 record, 3.59 ERA and conference Pitcher of the Year honor after leading the staff with 81 strikeouts in 90.1 innings.
Seattle Mariners selected Chris Torres in the 16th round with the 490th selection, adding the upstate pitcher who compiled 13 wins and helped the Spartans capture their first NCAA Tournament victory.
Draft Impact
The selections underscore the rising profile of the Big South, as programs from Longwood to USC Upstate continue to produce players who can compete at the highest levels of professional baseball.
Each draftee will join a franchise that has invested heavily in player development, with the Texas Rangers, Cincinnati Reds, San Diego Padres and Seattle Mariners adding fresh arms to their pipelines.
Looking Forward
As the newly signed players transition to professional play, the Big South Conference expects to see increased scouting attention and perhaps more draft picks in the coming years, reinforcing its reputation as a fertile ground for future MLB talent.