Mason Edwards, a left‑handed pitcher from the University of Southern California, was chosen 47th overall in the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft by the Athletics, marking the highest draft position for a Trojan since Brad Boxberger in 2009.
End of a 17‑year drought
The selection ends a 17‑year stretch without a USC player being chosen in the first two rounds, a drought that had lingered since the days of Boxberger.
Stankiewicz’s vision takes shape
When Andy Stankiewicz assumed leadership after the 2022 season, he articulated a clear objective: produce major‑league‑ready talent and elevate the Trojans to a national contender.
Edwards’ rise from early collegiate struggles and injury setbacks to a dominant force was swift. He fanned 169 batters, posted a 2.07 ERA, went 8‑0, and set a USC record with 15.9 strikeouts per nine innings.
Accolades and season impact
His performance earned Big Ten Pitcher of the Year, First‑Team All‑American honors and a final nod for the National Pitcher of the Year, while the Trojans finished 48‑18 and reached their first Super Regional since 2005.
The draft also welcomed outfielder Austin Overn and infielder Ethan Hedges, underscoring USC’s growing appeal to top prospects and its reputation as a pipeline for professional talent.