San Diego Padres Draft Five Players on Day 1 of 2026 MLB Draft

San Diego Padres added five high‑school and college prospects on Day 1 of the 2026 MLB Draft, a move that could reshape a club sitting 11th in the National League with a 46‑48 record and a two‑game losing streak as of July 12, 2026.

Who did the Padres pick?

The Padres used their first‑round pick on right‑hander Jaxon Rivera, a 19‑year‑old from Arizona who posted a 2.85 ERA and 12 strikeouts per nine innings last season. In the second round they selected infielder Mason Lee, a 20‑year‑old shortstop who hit .332 with 15 home runs for his junior college team. The third‑round choice was left‑handed pitcher Ethan Caldwell, noted for a 98‑mph fastball and a 0.98 WHIP in his senior year. Rounds four and five brought catcher Luis Ortega and outfielder Trevor Hayes, both praised for defensive versatility and speed on the basepaths.