The Major League Baseball draft began on Saturday, and one Kentucky Wildcats star heard his name called early. Shortstop Tyler Bell was chosen tenth overall by the Colorado Rockies. Then, a few rounds later, a second Wildcat heard his name called.
In the fourth round, with the No. 135 overall pick, the Philadelphia Phillies selected pitcher Jaxon Jelkin. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean he won’t be with the Wildcats next season.
This isn’t the first time Jelkin has been selected in the draft. In fact, it’s the third time. He was picked in the 2023 and 2024 drafts as well, but elected not to sign both times. Once again, he could decide to return to school and be drafted even higher next year.
Last season for Kentucky, Jelkin was terrific. He went 8-3 with a 4.08 ERA, and 106 strikeouts to just 21 walks. He recorded two complete games and even had one save.
Jelkin has the stuff to be a successful MLB pitcher, and he’ll have time to develop in an organization that has shown sustained success. Big Blue Nation will be behind him if he ultimately signs this time. If not, they’d love to have him back.
This article originally appeared on UK Wildcats Wire: Kentucky pitcher Jaxon Jelkin gets selected in the 2026 MLB draft
