The 2026 MLB Draft has become a milestone for the Oregon Ducks, with five of the seven players selected signing their first professional contracts, a feat that sets a new record for the program under head coach Mark Wasikowski.
Record‑Breaking Numbers
The draft also tied the 2015 edition for the second‑most Ducks ever chosen in a single year, underscoring the program’s rapid ascent in producing major‑league talent.
Ryan Cooney, a right‑handed pitcher, agreed to a deal with the Toronto Blue Jays that includes a $597,500 signing bonus, $165,400 below the slot value assigned to his selection.
Catch‑er Cal Scolari, drafted by the Chicago White Sox, reached an agreement reported at either $547,500 or $550,000, and the White Sox have already placed him at No. 21 among their top prospects.
Other Ducks who secured deals include left‑hander Maddox Molony, who signed with the Detroit Tigers for $344,800, $2,500 under his slot, and infielder Devin Bell, who inked a $7,500 contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, $184,400 beneath his projected value.
While Miles Gosztola and Jack Brooks remain unsigned as of the article’s publication, the overall draft still reflects a strong pipeline, with additional signees such as Drew Smith and Ernie Clement drawing attention for their slot‑value savings.
Coach Mark Wasikowski’s strategic recruiting has paid off, as his teams have now produced the most draft picks in Oregon history, a testament to the program’s growing influence in the national baseball landscape.