Baseball

Arizona Wildcats Alumni Make Their Mark in MLB’s 2026 Season

From desert diamonds to diamond duels, a snapshot of former Wildcats making their mark

The University of Arizona's baseball program has long been a pipeline to the majors, and this season is no exception. A dozen former Wildcats are scattered across the baseball landscape, from the bright lights of the majors to the minor league grind and even overseas leagues, each carving out a distinct narrative.

Key Performances in the Majors

Right‑hander Kevin Ginkel has been a standout for the Arizona Diamondbacks, posting a 2.84 ERA and fanning 40 batters in 38 innings, a performance that has helped solidify his role in the Diamondbacks' bullpen.

Outfielder Robert Refsnyder, meanwhile, is trying to find his footing with the Seattle Mariners, batting .133 with three homers and nine RBI in 49 games, numbers that reflect both the challenge of adjusting to major‑league pitching and the occasional flashes of power.

Chase Silseth, a reliever for the Los Angeles Angels, has compiled a 3.03 ERA across 42 appearances, showcasing the consistency that earned him a permanent spot in the club's late‑inning mix.

Austin Wells, the Yankees' primary catcher, is still searching for his rhythm at the plate, sitting at .155 with six homers and 13 RBI in 66 games, a statistic that underscores the steep learning curve for a young backstop in New York.

Injury Concerns and Rehab Assignments

Andrew Nardi of the Miami Marlins hit the injured list after medical staff identified a stress reaction in his ribs, a setback that could delay his contribution to the club's rotation.

Scott Kingery, an infielder with the Chicago Cubs, is currently at Triple‑A Iowa, where he is hitting .205 with three home runs and 12 RBI in 38 games, numbers that hint at both potential and the need for adjustment.

Cesar Salazar, a catcher for the Houston Astros, has managed a .189 average in the majors while adding 10 RBI, but his 49 minor‑league homers illustrate a power tool that could translate with more playing time.

Daniel Susac, a San Francisco Giants catcher, is batting .262 with 14 RBI and is currently on a rehab assignment, a signal that the organization is hopeful about his return to full health.

Jared Oliva, an outfielder who was released by the New York Mets after being claimed off waivers from the Giants, illustrates how quickly roster moves can reshape a player's trajectory.

Overseas and Minor League Journeys

Bobby Dalbec, the first baseman now with the Yomiuri Giants in Japan, is tied for fourth in that league with 13 homers, showing that his power can find a new home across the Pacific.

Jackson Kent, a pitcher for the Washington Nationals, carries a 5.02 ERA in nine starts at Triple‑A Rochester, a figure that reflects both the volatility and the upside of a young arm.

Clark Candiotti, TJ Nichols and Tonko Susac are all competing at the Double‑A level for the San Diego Padres, Tampa Bay Rays and Texas Rangers respectively, each looking to translate minor‑league success into major‑league opportunities.

Chase Davis, an outfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals, is currently rehabbing in Single‑A after an injury, a step that could set the stage for a future call‑up.

Aaron Walton, an outfielder with the Cleveland Guardians, earned a promotion to Double‑A after blasting 15 homers at High‑A Lake County, a milestone that highlights his rapid ascent.

Together, these former Wildcats illustrate the breadth of pathways available to college alumni, from dominant performances in the majors to gritty rehab work and international competition, each chapter adding to the ongoing story of Arizona baseball.

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