Auburn RHP Alex Petrovic Drafted by New York Mets

Early Draft Reaction

The Mets added a right‑handed arm from Auburn in the sixth round, selecting Alex Petrovic with the 181st overall pick. The club assigned a slot value of $364.6 K to the signing bonus, reflecting the depth of talent available in that round. Petrovic becomes the second Auburn Tiger to leave college for the MLB circuit this year.

Chris Rembert, a second‑round pick by the Pittsburgh Pirates on Saturday, paved the way for his teammate’s selection. The Pirates used a higher pick for a power‑arming catcher, while the Mets focused on bullpen depth. Both early picks illustrate how Auburn’s program is gaining visibility in the amateur draft.

College Highlights

Over three seasons, Petrovic appeared in 31 games and earned a reputation as a clutch starter, especially during his redshirt sophomore campaign. He tossed 92 ⅔ innings, striking out 92 batters and posting a 10‑2 win‑loss record. Auburn won 12 games when Petrovic was on the mound, including winning streaks of five straight at the start of the season.

His workload expanded in 2026, with 17 starts shared across the weekend rotation. The Tigers often leaned on him for the final game of weekend series, where his durable outings helped secure series sweeps. By the end of his college career, Petrovic’s statistical line sits at 11‑2, a 3.60 ERA and 134 strikeouts.

What the Mets Gain

New York acquired a pitcher who can handle mid‑rotation roles with the ability to throw deep into games. The slot value suggests the Mets balanced their signing bonus pool while targeting a pitcher with executable stuff. If Petrovic signs, he will join the organization’s developmental pipeline aimed at bolstering a durable bullpen depth.

The Mets have historically leaned on college arms in later rounds, and this pick continues that trend. Observers note that Petrovic’s ability to keep games close aligns with the club’s recent emphasis on starters who can navigate low‑scoring contests. The organization will likely integrate him into the minor‑league system for the remainder of the season.

Future Outlook

Petrovic’s transition to professional baseball will depend on how quickly he adapts to heavier travel schedules and advanced scouting approaches. The Auburn program will watch his progression with particular interest, as each draftee raises the profile of the pitching staff. Fans and analysts alike expect the young right‑hander to be a potential long‑term asset for the Mets if his college numbers translate to the pro level.

Overall, the early weekend of the 2026 MLB Draft signals a promising returning class for Auburn baseball, with Petrovic’s selection serving as a benchmark for the team’s continued emergence on the national scouting radar.