Tigers Could Snap Decades-Long Trend

The Detroit Tigers are considering a left-handed pitcher with their first-round pick in the 2026 MLB Draft, potentially selecting Logan Schmidt of Pomona, California, at No. 22, according to Baseball America’s first official mock draft. This would be a significant departure from recent team history.

The Tigers last selected a high school pitcher with their first pick in 2021, taking Jackson Jobe at No. 3 overall. Even further back, the team hasn’t drafted a prep lefty with their top pick since 1976, when they selected Pat Underwood.

Scouting Report: Schmidt’s Potential

The 6-foot-4 Schmidt, an LSU commitment, reclassified for the 2026 draft last year. Our scout gives the Tigers one of the top lefties available in Schmidt, writes Baseball America’s Carlos Collazo. This would snap the team’s three-year stretch of taking high school lefthanded hitters with their first overall pick. Schmidt pairs youth and size with a strong mix of quality pitches.

Draft Outlook and Jobe’s Recovery

The MLB Draft is scheduled for July 11-13 in Philadelphia. Mock drafts are subject to change, as Baseball America’s earlier draft in December projected the Tigers taking TCU pitcher Tommy LaPour.

Meanwhile, Jackson Jobe, a previous Tigers’ first-round pick, is recovering from an elbow injury requiring hybrid reconstructive surgery. He could be throwing bullpens by mid-April and potentially pitching by late August.

Recent Tigers Draft History

Following the selection of infielder Jace Jung in 2022, the Tigers have focused on high school hitters in the first round, including outfielder Max Clark, shortstop Bryce Rainer, and shortstop Jordan Yost.