​The Phillies are back on the clock and have selected another bat, this time choosing Caden Bogenpohl, an outfielder from Missouri State. Missouri State has a storied track record of producing big-league talent, including batting champions like Bill Mueller, home run leaders such as Ryan Howard and Luke Voit, and Rookie of the Year Award winners like Drake Baldwin. The Bears now boast one of the most physically imposing and powerful hitters in the 2026 draft class. Bogenpohl established himself early by breaking Howard’s school freshman home run record with 20 in 2024 and matching another Missouri State milestone by drawing 55 walks last spring. Standing 6-foot-6 and weighing about 245 pounds, he brings plus-plus raw power from the left side of the plate and has the ability to drive pitches out of the park from foul pole to foul pole. Yet, he only hit six home runs in 55 games as a junior.
In terms of metrics, Bogenpohl posted some of the best exit velocities in the 2026 college class, with readings peaking at 119 mph. However, this power comes with caveats: he also recorded a very high groundball rate, at 53 percent. His approach is disciplined; he tends not to chase when pitchers fail to challenge him, but there are concerns about him leaking open early and not punishing pitches on the outer half of the plate. His oversized frame contributes to an extra-long swing, which can lead to in-zone swing-and-miss and struggles against non-fastballs. Despite these swing and miss issues, he demonstrates surprising athleticism for his size and shows solid speed once he gets moving.
Defensively, Bogenpohl has demonstrated the ability to play center field in college, but projections suggest he is more likely to settle into a corner-outfield role in pro ball. His throwing is no longer the standout tool it once appeared to be; after previously showing above-average arm strength, his current grades are more along the average to solid range. This combination of raw power, plate discipline, and physical projection makes Bogenpohl an intriguing hitter for the Phillies as they continue to build depth in their farm system.
The Phillies will have another selection in the 3rd round, picking at 100 overall, as they continue to shape their draft strategy. Bogenpohl’s profile presents a blend of power potential and athletic upside that could translate into substantial value if his swing adjustments and approach can be refined at the pro level. With Missouri State’s history of producing notable big leaguers, there’s a reasonable expectation that Bogenpohl could develop into a versatile run producer with the right developmental plan.