DRAFT RACE: Dodgers Kick Off MLB Draft by Grabbing Two of Arkansas’ Finest
The Los Angeles Dodgers made a strong early statement in the 2025 MLB Draft by selecting two standout players from the University of Arkansas. With their first picks, the Dodgers dipped into one of the NCAA’s most competitive baseball programs, aiming to bolster their farm system with proven collegiate talent.
In the first round, the Dodgers selected Hagen Smith, a dominant left-handed pitcher known for his electric fastball and bulldog mentality on the mound. Smith quickly rose up draft boards this year thanks to a stellar junior season in Fayetteville. He posted a sub-2.00 ERA, struck out over 150 batters, and consistently delivered in high-pressure games.
Smith’s command, poise, and pitch variety made him one of the most coveted arms in the draft. Scouts praised his ability to control the game’s tempo and challenge hitters with confidence. His fastball touches the upper 90s, and he complements it with a sharp slider and developing changeup.
“He’s a competitor through and through,” Dodgers scouting director Billy Gasparino said. “We believe Hagen has the makeup to become a frontline starter at the next level.”
The Dodgers didn’t wait long to return to the Razorbacks’ talent pool. With their second pick, they selected Kendall Diggs, a powerful and versatile hitter who shined as Arkansas’ everyday outfielder and designated hitter. Diggs displayed both consistency and pop throughout his junior season, batting over .310 with double-digit home runs.
Diggs’ left-handed bat adds balance to the Dodgers’ prospect pipeline. He’s known for his mature plate approach, quick hands, and ability to drive the ball to all fields. His high baseball IQ and strong leadership qualities made him a fan favorite in Arkansas and a clubhouse anchor.
“He’s one of the best pure hitters in the college game,” Gasparino said. “Kendall brings polish and intensity—two things we value highly.”
The back-to-back Arkansas picks show the Dodgers’ clear trust in the Razorbacks’ development system. Under head coach Dave Van Horn, Arkansas has produced a steady stream of major-league-ready talent. The Dodgers’ latest selections highlight a strong relationship between the two programs.
By targeting proven college performers, the Dodgers also signal a win-now mentality when it comes to prospect development. Both Smith and Diggs are projected to move quickly through the minors, and each could see major league action within the next two to three seasons.
Fans and analysts alike applauded the Dodgers’ draft strategy. With a farm system already ranked among the best in baseball, these picks could provide even more firepower for a franchise that consistently competes for championships.
As the draft continues, all eyes will remain on the Dodgers’ front office. But one thing is already clear: by landing two of Arkansas’ finest, Los Angeles wasted no time adding elite talent with big-league potential.