​Florida State’s baseball program saw seven players selected in the 2026 MLB Draft, a testament to the depth and talent cultivated under head coach Link Jarrett. The two-day event in Philadelphia culminated in a landmark achievement: the Seminoles have now had at least seven players chosen in the MLB Draft for three consecutive seasons, the first time in program history that this has happened. The selections highlighted FSU’s continued impact on the professional ranks and underscored the program’s sustained success on the diamond.
Leading the charge among the picks was left-handed ace Wes Mendes, who went 57th overall in the second round to the Houston Astros. Mendes’ emergence as a top pitching prospect was a major storyline for Florida State, and his early selection signaled the depth of the Seminoles’ rotation this season. Shortly after, Myles Bailey was chosen 75th overall by the Chicago Cubs in the second round. With Mendes and Bailey both going early in the draft, Florida State has now had eight players selected in the first two rounds over Jarrett’s tenure, reinforcing the program’s reputation for developing college talent into professional-ready prospects.
Not every result went exactly as anticipated for FSU. One notable omission from the draft was left-handed pitcher John Abraham, who did not hear his name called during the selection process. Abraham will be eligible to return for his senior season, a development that could provide a significant boost to the Seminoles’ pitching staff as they look to contend in their upcoming schedule. His potential return adds an element of optimism for fans who value depth and experience on the mound.
Beyond Florida State’s current roster, the prep ranks also offered exciting news for the program. The Seminoles’ top two commitments, Landon Thome and Kaden Waechter, were both selected within the first two rounds of the draft. This development is intriguing for several reasons: while their college futures in Tallahassee may be in question, the likelihood remains that both players will pursue pro opportunities. Landon Thome, in particular, carries additional anticipation as he is the son of Hall of Fame slugger Jim Thome, a connection that adds a layer of intrigue to their potential paths.
The 2026 draft results for Florida State include several standout performers. Mendes was selected 47th overall by the Houston Astros, while Bailey followed at 75th overall to the Chicago Cubs. Brayden Dowd went 88th overall to the Arizona Diamondbacks, and Trey Beard was picked 147th overall by the Miami Marlins. These choices reflect not only the program’s ongoing ability to produce professional-caliber players but also the diverse pathway that FSU graduates take to the majors, spanning multiple rounds and organizations.
For those following Florida State athletics closely, the coverage also emphasizes the broader impact of these selections on the Tallahassee community and the university’s reputation. Liam Rooney of the Tallahassee Democrat reported on the story, highlighting the local connection and the significance of the draft for FSU fans and supporters. Rooney’s reporting helps illustrate how the draft outcomes resonate beyond the field, influencing recruiting, fan engagement, and the university’s overall athletic branding.
In summary, Florida State’s seven selections in the 2026 MLB Draft reaffirm the program’s status as a consistent pipeline to the majors. Mendes and Bailey’s early rounds underscore the immediate impact current rosters can have on professional opportunities, while the ongoing potential of Abraham, Thome, and Waechter adds layers of opportunity and intrigue for FSU’s future. As Jarrett continues to build and develop talent, expectations remain high that the Seminoles will continue to produce draft-worthy players in the coming years, maintaining their position as a perennial powerhouse in college baseball.