Hagen Smith joins the ranks of Razorbacks selected in the first round, marking the latest in Arkansas’ prestigious draft history.
Arkansas’ Hagen Smith was chosen as the second pitcher in the 2024 MLB Draft, selected fifth overall by the Chicago White Sox. This pick comes with a projected slot value of $7,763,700. The only pitcher taken earlier was Chase Burns of Wake Forest, picked second overall by the Cincinnati Reds.
Smith concluded his tenure with the Razorbacks, amassing a career-high 360 strikeouts over three seasons. He compiled a 24-6 record with a 3.40 ERA across 233 innings pitched. This selection marks Arkansas’ first first-round draft pick since Heston Kjerstad in the abbreviated 2020 draft and the first Razorback pitcher chosen in the opening round since Ryne Stanek in 2013.
Known as one of the top pitching prospects in the 2024 draft class, Smith is anticipated to have a quick path to the majors, with a potential debut as early as this year.
Coach Dave Van Horn commented, “If he throws it over the plate they may start him somewhere. They may just say, ‘Put him in the bullpen up there in September, what the heck.'”
Day two of the MLB Draft will continue at 1 p.m. on Monday on MLB.com, with other Razorbacks hopeful to hear their names called as they embark on their journeys toward the major leagues.
