​Arkansas pitcher Carson Wiggins was selected by the New York Mets with the 27th overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft on Saturday, July 11. He became the Razorbacks’ second draft choice of the weekend, narrowly edging out redshirt sophomore Hunter Dietz. Wiggins’ projected slot value at No. 27 was pegged at $3.47 million.
The Oklahoma native had just completed his sophomore season at Arkansas, though he did not throw a single pitch. He underwent Tommy John surgery in May 2025, and despite being deemed “100% healthy” earlier in the spring, Wiggins was not cleared to return in the later stages of the 2026 season by his medical team.
Wiggins was draft eligible this year after turning 21 earlier in the summer. During his freshman season, he posted a 1-1 record with three saves and a 3.21 ERA across 14 innings. He struck out 20 batters while issuing nine walks, and he did not allow a home run.
Arkansas had hoped Wiggins would return to the program as a redshirt sophomore in 2027, with the coaching staff envisioning him as their Friday night starter, given his limited SEC experience. It was a projection built on the potential of the right-hander and the impact he could have on the Razorbacks’ rotation.
Wiggins’ return to Fayetteville faced uncertainty following the Mets’ selection, but all eyes remained on whether he would sign a professional contract or pursue another year in college baseball. If he signs with the Mets, he could bring a powerful fastball to the upper levels of the minor leagues. As a freshman, he reached 102 mph with his fastball, and he typically sits around 98 mph. He also showcases a wipeout slider, though he would still need to develop a reliable third pitch and demonstrate improved command to maximize his ceiling.
Developing consistency and refining his arsenal will be critical if Wiggins continues his professional career, or if he elects to return to school. Arkansas believes Wiggins could mature into a top-10 pick with another season in Fayetteville, provided he can regain peak form following surgery and maintain velocity alongside more advanced command.
Jackson Fuller covers Arkansas football, basketball, and baseball for the Southwest Times Record, part of the USA TODAY Network. He can be reached at jfuller@usatodayco.com or followed on X (formerly Twitter) at @jacksonfuller16. This article originally appeared on Fort Smith Times Record: What Arkansas baseball’s Carson Wiggins brings to New York Mets in MLB Draft first round for better SEO.