The 2026 Major League Baseball draft has placed two former Santa Clara Broncos standouts into the professional ranks, marking a significant milestone for the program. Max Bayles, a right‑handed pitcher celebrated for his command and strikeout ability, was chosen seventh overall by the Minnesota Twins, while shortstop Ben Cleary was picked in the 12th round by the Cleveland Guardians. Both selections were announced on the same day, underscoring a productive draft for the Broncos.
Max Bayles' Road to Minnesota
Bayles arrived at Santa Clara with a reputation as one of the West Coast's premier arms, earning All‑Freshman and All‑WCC honors after a junior season that saw him finish 5‑4 with a 2.54 ERA and 104 strikeouts. He ranked second in the conference for strikeouts and opponent batting average, and placed 15th nationally in strikeouts per nine innings. Bayles credited his development to head coach Rusty Filter, the coaching staff, and the mentorship of earlier Broncos pitchers. After a late‑season eight‑game win streak that propelled the team into the playoffs, Bayles decided to forgo his senior year, citing a lifelong dream of playing professionally. He will begin his MLB journey with the Twins' rookie‑level affiliate in Florida, focusing on personal and athletic growth.
Ben Cleary's Unexpected Draft Moment
Shortstop Ben Cleary, a transfer‑portal standout who improved his OPS from .681 as a freshman to .952 by his third season, was selected by the Guardians in the 12th round. Though the team had shown limited interest earlier, the Guardians ultimately recognized Cleary's defensive versatility and offensive upside. Cleary's rise was fueled by a strong late‑season push that helped Santa Clara secure a playoff berth. He will report to the Guardians' rookie‑level affiliate in Arizona, where he hopes to refine his game and contribute to a deepening infield corps. His departure leaves notable gaps in the Broncos' lineup, but his trajectory illustrates the program's ability to develop high‑caliber talent.
Both players emphasized hard work, mentorship, and surrounding oneself with the right people as key ingredients for success. Their stories reflect a broader narrative of college athletes leveraging elite collegiate experiences to launch professional careers, while also leaving behind a legacy of leadership for the remaining roster.