The Toronto Blue Jays have selected left-handed pitcher Cole Carlon from Arizona State University with the 39th overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft. Carlon, who stands at six-foot-five and weighs 230 pounds, joins the Blue Jays’ system, adding to their pool of pitching prospects.
Carlon recently completed his junior season in the NCAA, transitioning to a starter role after two seasons as a reliever. He was recognized as an all-American during his sophomore year while pitching in relief. This past season, he was named to the all-Big 12 first team, marking his second such career honour.
During his junior season, Carlon made 16 starts, achieving a 5-2 record. He posted a 3.87 earned-run average and recorded 133 strikeouts over 83 2/3 innings pitched. His performance also included a 1.19 WHIP, allowing 31 walks.
Carlon’s Pitching Arsenal and Development
Carlon’s fastball velocity reached 98 mph this spring while he was pitching for the Sun Devils, though it typically sat around 94 mph. His breaking pitches are also notable, including an 87-88 mph cutter that functions like a slider, generating significant swing-and-misses. He also throws a 12-to-6 curveball and a changeup with fade.
His development into a starting pitcher has been gradual. Carlon began his collegiate career in a bullpen role as a freshman and maintained that position through his sophomore season. During his sophomore year, he also participated in USA Baseball’s Collegiate National Team Training Camp. He transitioned to a permanent starter role in his most recent spring season.
Some observers have expressed skepticism regarding Carlon’s long-term role, primarily due to past inconsistencies in locating pitches. However, he has managed to reduce his walk rate, which would be beneficial if he were to return to a bullpen role. Given that the Blue Jays used their first-round pick to select him, it is anticipated they will provide him with ample opportunity to develop as a starter.
Blue Jays’ Recent Draft Strategy
The Blue Jays have focused on accumulating high-upside arms in recent years. While the 2025 MLB Draft saw them lean more towards position players, drafting 11 compared to 8 pitchers, their strategy in the early rounds of the 2024 MLB Draft was heavily focused on pitchers.
In 2024, the Blue Jays selected Trey Yesavage with the 20th overall pick in the first round. They followed this by drafting Khal Stephen 59th overall in the second round and Johnny King 95th overall in the third round. Yesavage has since advanced to the major leagues and is considered a contender for the Rookie of the Year award this season.
Stephen was part of a trade last year, moving in a deal for Shane Bieber. King has been performing well in the minor leagues, showing potential for a future in MLB. Carlon now enters the Blue Jays’ system with similar expectations placed upon him.
In addition to Carlon, the Blue Jays also selected shortstop Ryan Cooney from the University of Oregon in the third round of the current draft, with the 103rd overall pick. Cooney, a six-foot, 195-pound junior, recorded eight home runs, 43 RBIs, and a .331 batting average. He was also named to the all-Big Ten first team for his performance.
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Source: jaysjournal.com
