​Day two of the MLB draft proved to be a busy one for the Auburn Tigers as multiple members of the program’s 2026 roster heard their names called. The latest Auburn player selected in the draft is Ryan Hetzler, who went to the Los Angeles Angels in the seventh round, hearing his name called at No. 199 overall with a slot value of $314,300. Hetzler is the third Auburn Tiger to be chosen in this year’s draft and the second pitcher to come off the board, following Alex Petrovic, who went a round earlier to the New York Mets.
Hetzler, a Corona, California native, spent two seasons with the Tigers, where he emerged as the team’s primary closer. Across his Auburn tenure, Hetzler appeared in 39 games and recorded 11 saves. He posted a career-best eight saves during the 2025 season over 35 innings, a figure that demonstrates his effectiveness in high-leverage situations. In 2026, his save total dipped to three, but he responded with increased workload and improved strikeout production. Over 37 innings this season, Hetzler struck out 38 batters while walking only five, underscoring his command and ability to miss bats.
Hetzler has long been a dependable option out of Auburn’s bullpen and proved especially valuable as the Tigers navigated late-game scenarios in crucial contests. He delivered five innings of relief against Arkansas in the SEC Tournament and followed with a four-inning relief performance against Milwaukee in the Auburn Regional on May 31, helping stabilize the bullpen during a pivotal stretch of the season.
Before transferring to Auburn, Hetzler spent time at California Baptist, and his combined resume across three seasons includes 15 saves, an 11-4 record, and a 2.93 ERA. His professional potential has been evident to scouts, particularly his ability to secure outs in late innings and his durability in short-relief roles.
For fans following Auburn baseball, Hetzler’s selection marks another positive note for the program’s 2026 roster, and it continues a year of notable draft activity for the Tigers. To stay updated on Auburn news, notes, and opinions, follow The Auburn Wire on X (formerly Twitter) at @TheAuburnWire, and like their Facebook page for ongoing coverage. You can also follow Taylor Jones on X at @TaylorJones__ for additional updates and insights. This report originally appeared on Auburn Wire under the headline Auburn RHP Ryan Hetzler Selected by the Angels in the 2026 MLB Draft, highlighting the Tigers’ continued presence in the draft landscape and their developing pitching depth.