A top high school prospect is passing up the MLB draft to play for LSU baseball. According to Kiley McDaniel, right-handed pitcher Reagan Ricken will head to Baton Rouge.
“He was widely expected to not sign due to a big asking price but is a clear seven-figure talent. He ranks 121st on my final draft board,” McDaniel wrote on social media on Friday morning.
According to Perfect Game, Ricken is the No. 69-ranked high school prospect in the class. He ranks No. 13 among right-handed pitchers and No. 16 in the state of California. He stands at 6-foot-5 and weighs 220 pounds.
Ricken confirmed the news with a post of his own.
“After thoughtful consideration with my family, I have decided to officially withdraw my name from the 2025 MLB Draft. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities and support throughout this process. I am excited to be attending LSU. Geaux Tigers,” wrote Ricken.
Prep RHP Reagan Ricken has withdrawn from the draft and is headed to LSU, per source.
He was widely expected to not sign due to a big asking price but is a clear seven figure talent. He ranks 121st on my final draft board https://t.co/d9mIIPWAG7
— Kiley McDaniel (@kileymcd) July 11, 2025
After thoughtful consideration with my family, I have decided to officially withdraw my name from the 2025 MLB Draft. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunities and support throughout this process. I am excited to be attending LSU. Geaux Tigers pic.twitter.com/Fdw370KAFx
— Reagan Ricken (@ReaganRicken) July 11, 2025
Ricken continues LSU’s run of finding recruiting success on the West Coast. LSU head coach Jay Johnson made his name coaching in Nevada and Arizona and has maintained those connections in Baton Rouge. One of LSU’s top hitters in 2025 was Derek Curiel — another California product.
It’s unclear what Ricken’s role with LSU will be in 2025. There’s a chance for newcomers to compete for premium roles with Kade Anderson and Anthony Eyanson off to the MLB. Ricken has the stuff to make an impact as a true freshman.
This article originally appeared on LSU Wire: Elite pitcher passes up MLB Draft to play for LSU baseball in 2026