Yankees Select ETSU Pitcher Michael Harpster in Seventh Round
East Tennessee State University pitcher Michael Harpster heard his name called by the New York Yankees in the seventh round of the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft. The Lynchburg, Virginia native was the 218th overall selection, marking a historic moment for ETSU baseball as the first player from the program ever drafted by the storied franchise.
The New York Yankees have added ETSU's Michael Harpster to their farm system, selecting the pitcher in the seventh round of the 2026 MLB Draft. Harpster, a standout from Lynchburg, Virginia, was chosen with the 218th overall pick, solidifying his place in the Buccaneers' baseball history.
This selection marks a significant milestone for East Tennessee State University, as Harpster becomes the first player from the program to be drafted by the New York Yankees. It also represents the highest draft position for an ETSU pitcher since Landon Knack was selected in a previous draft.
The Yankees got a potential steal in Harpster. Landing an ETSU player for the first time, let alone in the seventh round, suggests they might have found quality depth at a value pick.
