{"id":125629,"date":"2026-07-12T10:00:55","date_gmt":"2026-07-12T14:00:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/?p=125629"},"modified":"2026-07-11T23:00:37","modified_gmt":"2026-07-12T03:00:37","slug":"astros-first-round-picks","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/baseball\/2026\/07\/12\/astros-first-round-picks\/","title":{"rendered":"Astros Address Needs, Draft Logan Hughes and Jack Radel in Strong First Round"},"content":{"rendered":"

The Houston Astros entered the first round of the 2026 Major League Baseball <\/span>Draft with a great opportunity: two first-round selections. Rather than gamble on high school prospects, Houston went the college route by selecting Texas Tech outfielder Logan Hughes<\/a> with the No. 17 overall pick and Notre Dame right-handed pitcher Jack Radel<\/a> at No. 28.<\/span><\/p>\n

The Astros’ <\/span>draft strategy often emphasizes polished college players capable of moving quickly through the minor leagues, and this year’s first round was no exception.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Hughes brings an All-American caliber left-handed bat, while Radel offers a power arm with starter potential. Together, the pair represents a balanced <\/span>draft haul that addresses both the organization’s needs of pitching and a left-handed hitting outfielder.<\/span><\/p>\n

Logan Hughes Could Be Next Impact Bat<\/h3>\n

With the 17th overall selection, Houston chose Hughes, one of the nation’s most productive hitters after a standout season at Texas Tech. He hit .375 with 18 home runs while showcasing the ability to consistently barrel the baseball. Scouts view him as a polished offensive player whose advanced approach should translate well to professional baseball.<\/span><\/p>\n

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With the 17th pick of the 2026 #MLBDraft<\/a>, the @Astros<\/a> select Logan Hughes from Texas Tech.<\/p>\n

(MLB x Nippon Express) pic.twitter.com\/vlGk7nCXLC<\/a><\/p>\n

\u2014 MLB (@MLB) July 11, 2026<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n