Shortstop Roch Cholowsky is widely projected to be the No. 1 overall selection in the 2026 Major League Baseball draft, potentially marking the highest pick from UCLA since Gerrit Cole in 2011. The Chicago White Sox are expected to select Cholowsky.
Cholowsky, who earned Big Ten Player of the Year honors for the second consecutive season, finished 2026 with a .320 batting average, .452 on-base percentage, and a .636 slugging percentage. He recorded 74 hits, 73 runs, 60 RBIs, and a team-leading 21 home runs. One scout described Cholowsky as having "all the tools" including power, a strong swing, and good intangibles, comparing him to Boston Red Sox shortstop Trevor Story. A potential hurdle to him going No. 1 is his unwillingness to accept less than his slot value of $11.35 million, which could influence the White Sox's decision as they aim to distribute funds among multiple players.
Right-handed pitcher Logan Reddemann is another UCLA player anticipated to be selected in the first round. Reddemann posted an 8-0 record with a 2.87 ERA and 84 strikeouts in 59 2/3 innings before his season was cut short in mid-April due to arm fatigue. Scouts view him as a potential front-of-the-rotation starter, possibly a No. 2 pitcher, capable of generating both swings and misses and inducing soft contact.
Several other UCLA players are expected to be chosen in the early rounds. First baseman Mulivai Levu, who hit .340 with 18 home runs and 63 RBIs, is considered a prospect for the first three rounds. Outfielder Will Gasparino, who slashed .314/.412/.659 with 20 home runs, is also projected within the first three rounds, though concerns about his strikeout rate may cause him to slip past the first round. Infielder Roman Martin, who batted .333 with nine home runs, is another player expected to go in the first three rounds, noted for his instincts and power despite limited running speed.
Catching prospect Cashel Dugger, known for his defense and ability to manage a pitching staff, is projected for the middle rounds. Outfielder Dean West, recognized for his electrifying defense and .418 on-base percentage as a leadoff hitter, is also a middle-round possibility. Pitcher Justin Lee, who pitched exclusively from the bullpen with a 3.26 ERA, and hard-throwing reliever Cal Randall, who reached 100 mph in velocity, are also expected to be selected in the middle to late rounds. Lastly, outfielder Payton Brennan, who hit nine home runs and has a playing style compared to Lars Nootbar, is projected as a late-round pick, though his age may be a factor.