Devin Bell Heads to Hollywood: Dodgers Draft Oregon Closer

Bell’s Path to the Draft

Oregon closer Devin Bell has been selected by the Los Angeles Dodgers with the 160th overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft. The senior reliever, a Western Oregon transfer, closed out the Ducks’ season and earned second‑team All‑Big Ten honors after recording 12 saves. His final line featured a 3.86 ERA, and he proved capable of handling multiple innings thanks to his experience as a starter.

Bell’s most memorable moment came in the regular‑season finale versus USC, where he tossed four shutout innings and struck out seven batters in an extra‑innings victory. Throughout the year, he paired with Tanner Bradley to anchor a reliable bullpen, though the duo faced tough tests against UCLA and Texas in postseason play. His mid‑to‑high 90s fastball and hefty gyro slider generate ample swing‑and‑miss potential, traits that should translate well in the minors.

The Dodgers’ interest stretches deeper than Bell; they also selected Oregon starter Miles Gosztola in the eighth round, keeping local talent close. With Bell now out of college eligibility, the expectation is that he will sign quickly, leaving Gosztola free to return to Oregon if he chooses.

Dodgers’ Interest and Strategy

Los Angeles has a reputation for spotting defensive versatility and arm strength, and Bell’s profile fits that mold. The organization’s focus on developing pitchers with stamina and secondary pitches aligns with Bell’s skill set. By adding both a closer and a starter from the same program, the Dodgers are reinforcing a scouting connection to Oregon’s baseball scene.

Bell’s transition to professional baseball will be aided by his familiarity with high‑pressure situations, honed during crucial games for the Ducks. His ability to generate strikeouts while maintaining control makes him a compelling prospect for a franchise known for nurturing relievers. The drafting of Gosztola further signals the Dodgers’ intent to build a pipeline from the Pac‑12 ranks.

Oregon’s MLB Draft Class

Oregon’s 2026 class is already making waves in the MLB community. Earlier picks include Ryan Cooney, taken by the Toronto Blue Jays in the third round, and Cal Scolari, who joined the Chicago White Sox in the fifth round. Maddox Molony, also a Ducks standout, was selected by the Detroit Tigers in the sixth round.

These selections highlight a robust development program under the Ducks’ coaching staff, producing both starters and relievers capable of competing at the highest level. Cooney’s early departure marks the first Oregon player to sign with a major league team this year, setting a precedent for the upcoming class. The collective success adds prestige to Oregon’s baseball tradition and may encourage more top prospects to consider the program.

What Lies Ahead for Bell

Bell’s professional journey will begin in the Dodgers’ minor‑league system, where he’ll likely start as a relief pitcher. His recent college performance, including clutch saves and extra‑inning work, suggests he could push for early promotions. If he can refine his command and maintain his current velocity, a major‑league call‑up might not be far off.

Off the field, Bell’s status as a Western Oregon transfer adds an intriguing storyline to his draft narrative, showing his ability to succeed in a new environment. As the Ducks continue to develop talent, fans will watch whether Bell can become a cornerstone of Los Angeles’ bullpen. Expect his development to be a key storyline in Dodgers Wire coverage throughout the upcoming season.