SPORTS

D-backs select Arkansas catcher Ryder Helfrick in Draft

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Fayetteville — The Arizona Diamondbacks selected Arkansas catcher Ryder Helfrick with the No. 15 pick in the 2026 MLB Draft on Saturday in Philadelphia. Helfrick, a right-handed-hitting backstop known for defense and power, tied the Cape Cod League lead with 11 homers in 2024 and later slugged .616 with 15 homers over 190 at-bats for the Razorbacks. Fayetteville's coaching staff and Arkansas program saw the pick as a historic first-round catcher selection for the school, a development Matt Hobbs noted this week when discussing Helfrick's potential. Day 1 of the draft occurred Saturday, July 11, 2026, and MLB's published schedule shows Day 2 continuing Sunday, July 12, for rounds five through twenty.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

2023: Helfrick ranked among top prep catchers and enrolled at Arkansas.
2024: Tied Cape Cod League lead with 11 home runs during summer league play.
2025: Slugged .616 with 15 home runs over 190 at-bats for Arkansas.
2025 postseason: Named Fayetteville Regional MVP and earned ABCA/Rawlings South All-Region honors.
11th July 2026: The Arizona Diamondbacks selected Ryder Helfrick with the No. 15 overall pick.

Why This Matters to You

Helfrick's selection is a big deal for Arkansas. It's the first time an Arkansas catcher has been picked in the first round. This could inspire more local talent to pursue baseball careers. Check out your local Little League and encourage your kids to play.

The Bottom Line

Ryder Helfrick's journey from top prep catcher to No. 15 MLB Draft pick is a testament to hard work and talent. His performance could boost the Diamondbacks and put Arkansas on the baseball map. Worth forwarding if you know a young baseball hopeful.