Michael Smith Jr., a standout outfielder for the University of Dayton baseball team, has earned an invitation to the 2026 MLB Draft Combine, where he will don the FlyBoys jersey as one of the nation’s top prospects.
Smith Jr. capped his college season with a single‑season record of 38 stolen bases, while also leading the Flyers with a .502 on‑base percentage, underscoring his blend of speed and plate discipline.
A Prospects‑Heavy Event
The combine, scheduled for June 23‑26 at Chase Field in Phoenix, will bring together 335 players — 195 from the collegiate ranks and 140 from high schools — making it the most extensive gathering of draft‑eligible talent in recent memory.
Coverage will begin at 12 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, June 23, with live broadcasts on MLB Network, giving fans a first look at the athletes who could shape the upcoming draft.
What to Watch
Scouts will be particularly focused on Smith Jr.’s sprint speed and his ability to get on base consistently, metrics that have already placed him among the most exciting tools in the draft class.
Flyers’ Legacy
The University of Dayton has a storied baseball tradition, and Smith Jr.’s participation reflects the program’s continued ability to develop major‑league talent, a legacy that resonates with alumni and current fans alike.
Beyond the combine, the MLB Draft itself is set for July 11‑12 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where the final selections will be announced, adding a narrative arc that links the Phoenix showcase to the draft’s ultimate outcomes.