iStockphoto / Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Logan Schmidt turned down the Guardians to play for LSU.
Second round MLB Draft pick Logan Schmidt is headed to LSU. The left-handed pitcher rejected the Guardians to play in college.
His decision to suit up for the Tigers means he won’t be eligible for another draft until 2029. Schmidt cannot cash an MLB paycheck for three years.
That’s somewhat significant given his professional outlook. There were options on the table that would’ve allowed for a quicker path to the bigs. He’s instead opted to wait it out in Baton Rouge.
Logan Schmidt will honor LSU pledge.
Let’s Geaux pic.twitter.com/iSg9Lr6oEG
— Logan Schmidt (@Loganschmidt27) August 1, 2026
The lefty is rated as a Top 15 recruit nationally. The Ganesha High School product, who reclassified to graduate early, is one of the most talented players in the state of California. He was just 17 at the time of the draft.
Schmidt was ranked the No. 45 prospect on MLB.com’s 2026 preview. That list included both draft-eligible college and high school players.
Schmidt has a plus-fastball that sits mid to upper 90s. He can mix in some off-speed to keep hitters off balance. The Guardians selected him in the second round with the 59th overall pick.
That draft slot comes with a value of just under $1.6 million. Unfortunately, he could not come to an agreement with the organization.
After a great deal of thought and conversations with my agent Garrett Parcell, others at the Paragon group, my family, and those I trust most, I have made the difficult decision not to sign with the Cleveland Guardians.
I have a great deal of respect for that organization and…
— Logan Schmidt (@Loganschmidt27) July 26, 2026
Last week, he informed Cleveland of his decision to attend college. While he’d been committed to play for LSU, there were questions as to whether or not he’d honor that pledge.
MLB money was the reason for that concern.
Schmidt turned down seven figures from the Guardians this summer. He’s betting on himself to secure a higher draft grade in the future.
There was an option to enter JUCO. That would keep the pitcher eligible for next year’s selection process.
MLB Draft eligibility differs from level to level. High schoolers are immediately eligible upon graduating. Two-year JUCO prospects can enter at any time regardless of age or academic status.
Players at four-year college programs, though, must stay in school for three years after signing. By choosing LSU, Logan Schmidt effectively removed his name from MLB Draft consideration through 2029.
The ace expects to remain a highly rated prospect on future draft boards. Another seven-figure deal might’ve been on the table next year had he chosen JUCO. He will no longer have that option.
Schmidt will not earn any MLB money for at least three years. Luckily, the Tigers should be able to make it worth his while to live in Baton Rouge.