Caden Bogenpohl, a standout outfielder from Missouri State, was chosen by the Philadelphia Phillies in the second round of the 2026 MLB Draft, marking a historic moment for the program and cementing his status as the highest‑drafted outfielder ever to emerge from the university.
Bogenpohl’s collegiate résumé reads like a catalog of records. He led Conference USA with 52 walks as a junior in 2026, set the school’s career walk record at 160, and broke Bill Mueller’s long‑standing mark in just 59 fewer games. His single‑season walk totals of 55 (2025), 48 (2024) and 45 (2023) occupy the Nos. 1, 3 and 4 spots in Missouri State history.
The outfielder also shattered Ryan Howard’s freshman home‑run record with 20 homers in 2024, and over three seasons he batted .288 with 75 extra‑base hits, compiling a .977 OPS across 165 games. He ranks seventh in school history for runs scored (180) and ninth in on‑base percentage (.441), while his 39 career home runs place him 12th all‑time at the university.
A Milestone for the Bears
Being selected 123rd overall in the draft adds Bogenpohl’s name to an illustrious list of Missouri State alumni who have reached the major leagues. The pick not only reflects his individual excellence but also shines a spotlight on the program’s growing influence in producing top‑tier talent.
The Philadelphia Phillies organization will now look to develop Bogenpohl’s elite eye at the plate and his proven ability to get on base, traits that have already made him a trailblazer for his teammates and coaches. His journey from Springfield, Missouri, to the draft spotlight illustrates how a combination of skill, discipline and record‑breaking performances can translate into a landmark moment for both player and program.