Ryan Hetzler Drafted by Angels in 2026 MLB Draft

Auburn’s Draft Surge on Day Two

The second day of the MLB draft proved memorable for the Auburn Tigers as several members of its 2026 roster entered the professional ranks. Ryan Hetzler became the most recent Tiger selected, joining a growing list of Auburn alumni who signed this summer. He is the third Auburn player taken overall and the second pitcher, following Alex Petrovic who was picked one round earlier by the New York Mets.

Professional Journey Begins with Angels

Los Angeles Angels selected Ryan Hetzler in the seventh round, placing him 199th overall with a slot value of $314.30 thousand. The Angels viewed him as a right‑handed reliever with late‑inning capability, adding depth to their bullpen. His selection caps a brief but impactful college career that impressed scouts with his command and strikeout potential.

College Career Highlights

Hetzler, a native of Corona, California, spent two seasons as Auburn’s primary closer. Over 39 appearances he notched 11 saves, with a career‑best eight saves in 2025 across 35 innings. In 2026 his save total slipped to three, but he worked more innings, striking out 38 batters while walking only five. His ability to dominate at higher workloads helped Auburn finish deep in the postseason.

Key Tournament Appearances

Late in the season Hetzler was instrumental in preserving games, tossing five innings of relief against Arkansas in the SEC Tournament. He returned to the mound on May 31, delivering four scoreless innings against Milwaukee in the Auburn Regional. Those outings showcased his stamina and composure against top competition.

Overall College Résumé

Across three seasons—split between California Baptist and Auburn—Hetzler recorded 15 saves while posting an 11‑4 win‑loss record and a 2.93 ERA. His ability to close out games and limit baserunners impressed evaluators throughout his college tenure. The combination of high‑strikeout rates and low walk totals made him an attractive prospect for a fifth‑round pick.

Future Outlook for the Angels

The Angels’ investment of $314.30 K suggests confidence in Hetzler’s development as a middle‑relief option for the big leagues. If he can maintain the strikeout efficiency he displayed in college, the Angels may place him in their system with an eye toward a later promotion. Fans of the Angels will watch his progress as part of a rebuilt bullpen for the 2027 season.