Matt Conte Joins Vanderbilt Baseball After Withdrawing From MLB Draft

Transfer Decision

Conte, a Wake Forest catcher who had committed to Vanderbilt as a transfer, is pulling his name from the 2026 MLB Draft and will play for the Commodores next season. The announcement came from a source familiar with the situation on July 10. Conte is a draft‑eligible sophomore with an established role behind the plate.

2026 Season Stats at Wake Forest

During his final year with the Demon Deacons, Conte batted .274 and produced 12 doubles, two triples and 12 home runs. He started 35 games as the primary catcher and was noted for handling power arms effectively. Those numbers helped cement his projection as Vanderbilt’s everyday starter at catcher.

Draft Rankings and Outlook

Baseball America placed Conte at No. 304 overall, roughly a 10th‑round pick, and gave him a No. 21 rating in the transfer portal. By withdrawing, he forfeits any eligibility for selection when the draft opens on July 11. His ranking indicates he was considered a high‑end prospect before the decision.

Other Vanderbilt Transfer Commitments

Vanderbilt also secured Western Kentucky left‑hander Dominic Monaco and Wofford outfielder Niko Brini as draft‑eligible transfers. Neither player is expected to be selected in this year’s draft. These additions, alongside Conte, boost the Commodores’ depth on the roster.

What This Means for Vanderbilt

With Conte set to be the everyday catcher, Vanderbilt gains a power‑hitting backstop who can also manage the running game. His elite transfer‑portal ranking suggests he will fill a key need and contribute immediately. The addition complements a catching corps that already includes several current players and signees who could be drafted, giving the program strong options for the 2027 season.