The Toronto Blue Jays entered the 2026 MLB Draft with significant constraints, but they still managed to secure a promising arm in left-hander Cole Carlon from Arizona State University. Selected with the 39th overall pick—the first pick of the second round—Carlon brings a high-90s fastball and an advanced slider that could make him a future asset for the club.
The Blue Jays faced a 10-pick penalty for exceeding the second surcharge threshold of the Competitive Balance Tax, leaving them with limited expectations. However, the organization believes Carlon has the potential to develop into a reliable starter or a high-leverage reliever.
Scouting Report and Physical Tools
Cole Carlon, 21, stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 230 pounds. He already possesses a fastball that sits in the high 90s and has occasionally touched triple digits. According to the Blue Jays, his slider is considered extremely advanced for his current stage of development. If Carlon can refine his curveball and change-up, he could attack opposing lineups with a well-rounded arsenal.
Carlon did not become a starting pitcher until this season, so there is some uncertainty about his long-term role. However, his combination of size, velocity, and a plus secondary pitch gives him a high ceiling.
Financial Constraints and Draft Strategy
The Blue Jays operated with a total draft bonus pool of $5,543,100, which had to be split among all their picks. For comparison, the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers had the smallest pool at $3,951,900. Last year, the Jays paid their first-round pick JoJo Parker $6,197,500—more than the entire 2026 draft class will receive.
With their second pick (No. 103), the Blue Jays selected shortstop Ryan Cooney from the University of Oregon. In the third round (No. 131), they added high school catcher Will Brick from Christian Brothers High School in Tennessee. The draft continues Sunday with rounds 5 through 20.
Top Picks Across the League
The Chicago White Sox selected UCLA shortstop Roch Cholowsky with the first overall pick. The top Canadian chosen was Indiana State outfielder Carter Beck, a Saskatchewan native, who went to the Atlanta Braves with the 26th overall pick.
“The Jays managed to secure an arm that could be helping them in the not-too-distant future,” wrote Mike Ganter of the Toronto Sun. “Carlon’s fastball and slider should play well enough to make him a guy opponents would rather not face.”
