​Notre Dame Fighting Irish pitcher Jack Radel has been chosen in the first round of the 2026 MLB draft by the Houston Astros, selected with the No. 28 overall pick. The hard-throwing right-hander from Notre Dame earned recognition as a third-team All-American and a first-team All-ACC honoree while delivering a breakout season that elevated him into the top tier of draft projections. Radel posted a remarkable 87.2 innings pitched this season, a personal best that helped him rear into the first round after years of steady development in college baseball.
Radel’s 2026 campaign featured a robust stat line that underscored his durability and effectiveness. He made 15 starts, including two complete games, and finished with a 3.29 earned run average. His strikeout total reached 116, marking another career-high, and he registered eight victories, also the most he had achieved in a single season to date. These numbers reflect a pitcher who consistently worked deep into games and dominated at times with overpowering stuff and good command. By season’s end, he ranked among Division I leaders in several important categories, including WHIP, complete games, strikeouts, and strikeout-to-walk ratio, highlighting his efficiency and prowess on the mound.
Radel ends his three-season stint at Notre Dame with an impressive career record of 19-10, a 3.71 ERA, and a 1.123 WHIP across 42 appearances, 38 of which were as a starter. He also recorded a career shutout, which came during the 2026 season, demonstrating his ability to lock down a game from the mound when needed. His progression over Notre Dame’s pitching staff showcases a pitcher who developed steadily, refined his mechanics, and elevated his performance at the most critical moments of his college career.
The jump to the major leagues, especially as a first-round pick, is a testament to Radel’s hard work, resilience, and upside. The Astros will look to harness his talents, refine his approach within their development system, and monitor his continued growth as he transitions from college baseball to professional competition. Observers and Notre Dame fans alike will be eager to see how Radel progresses in the Astros organization and when he might reach the big leagues.
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