Draft Day Highlights
The 2026 MLB Draft saw Texas right‑handers Thomas Burns and Cody Howard join a distinguished list of alumni, each hearing their names called in the eighth and thirteenth rounds respectively. Luke Harrison, also a right‑hander, was selected by the St. Louis Cardinals in the same round, marking a busy weekend for the Longhorns.
Burns, a sophomore with two years of eligibility remaining, was picked by the Minnesota Twins after posting a 5.64 ERA and 43 strikeouts in 22⅓ innings out of the bullpen. Howard, a fifth‑year senior, earned a thirteenth‑round nod from the Washington Nationals, having opened the season’s SEC Tournament with a strong outing.
Harrison capped his college career as a fifth‑year senior, finishing with an 11‑5 record over the past two seasons and a career‑high 11 strikeouts against Georgia at the College World Series. He also recorded a save in the regional‑clinching win over UC Santa Barbara, underscoring his versatility on the mound.
A Program on a Roll
Texas has now produced a drafted player in every MLB draft since 1965, a streak that reflects the program’s consistent talent pipeline. The Longhorns finished the season 46‑15 and reached the College World Series, where they faced Georgia and Arizona in memorable matchups.
Coach and staff emphasized the relievers’ roles, with Burns and Howard primarily serving as bullpen arms. Their performances not only bolstered the team’s postseason run but also reinforced the program’s reputation for developing major‑league ready arms.
Looking ahead, Burns will retain eligibility for two more seasons, giving the Twins a potential long‑term asset, while Howard’s draft selection adds depth to the Nationals’ pitching corps. Both players are expected to sign quickly and begin their professional journeys.