The 2026 MLB Draft has already begun to ripple through the minor leagues, as several recent Kansas State graduates inked undrafted free‑agent agreements with big‑league clubs.
Undrafted K-State Standouts Secure MLB Futures
Cooper Carlgren, who concluded his college career at Washburn, signed a deal with the Washington Nationals and is now pitching for the Trenton Thunder, the Double‑A affiliate of the Nationals in the MLB Draft League.
Shintaro Inoue, a utility infielder who appeared in all 57 games this season, batted .278 with six home runs and 34 runs batted in, statistics that helped persuade the Oakland Athletics to bring him into their organization.
Right‑hander Miles Smith, who recorded 31 strikeouts over 34 ⅔ innings across 20 relief appearances, earned a contract with the Washington Nationals after a strong finish to his senior year.
Their signings mark the fifth and sixth players from the 2026 K‑State roster to receive MLB opportunities, underscoring the program’s recent pipeline to the majors.
The moves highlight how collegiate success can translate into professional pathways, even when players slip through the traditional draft format.