The 2026 MLB Draft wrapped up on Sunday night, bringing a wave of anticipation as teams announced their final selections. Among the names called were five players who had worn the orange and white of the University of Tennessee, marking a notable presence for the Volunteers on the draft board.
Tennessee’s Draft Footprint
The first of those Volunteers, infielder Henry Ford, slipped to the sixth round before the Seattle Mariners claimed him, a surprise that underscored the depth of talent in the class. Shortly after, right‑handed pitcher Bo Rhudy was taken by the Philadelphia Phillies in the seventh round, while utility man Garrett Wright found a home with the Los Angeles Angels in the eighth.
Left‑handed pitchers Brandon Arvidson and Evan Blanco rounded out the Tennessee contingent, each hearing their names in the later rounds as clubs sought to add depth to their pitching rotations.
High school prospects also made the cut, with Ty Putnam and Cody Boshell both earning draft nods. Putnam, ranked No. 92 by Perfect Game in the 2026 recruiting cycle, and Boshell, listed at No. 124, highlighted the state’s rich pipeline of talent.
Despite the selections, a sizable group of Tennessee recruits and transfer commits went undrafted, choosing instead to preserve eligibility and pursue collegiate careers. Names such as Sean Dunlap, Cole Koeninger, AJ Curry, Gannon Grant, Shawn Sullivan, Gary Morse, Jaxson Wood, Jack Dugan, Ricky Ojeda and Travis Sanders all opted for school over professional contracts.
Among the transfer athletes, Jake McCoy and Andrew Duncan were not left unnoticed. McCoy, recovering from Tommy John surgery, could see his stock rise with a strong 2026 season at Tennessee, while Duncan’s experience across multiple programs may make him an attractive signee for the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The draft’s aftermath reflects a broader trend: while the Volunteers’ footprint was evident, the majority of Tennessee’s prospects are electing to develop their games in college, a decision that could shape the next wave of talent for both the NCAA and the majors.