Six Auburn Tigers Selected in Record-Setting MLB Draft as Program Reaches New Heights in Player Development and National Recognition
The 2025 MLB Draft will be remembered as a historic milestone for Auburn baseball, as six Tigers heard their names called during the three-day event, setting a new program record for players selected in a single draft. The achievement marks a monumental moment for head coach Butch Thompson and the entire Auburn baseball program, showcasing its upward trajectory and continued commitment to developing elite-level talent for the next stage of their careers.
Auburn’s presence in this year’s draft wasn’t just about quantity—it was about the quality, depth, and readiness of players who performed at the highest level during the 2025 college baseball season. From top-end pitching to versatile position players and experienced veterans, the Tigers sent a message to the baseball world: Auburn is not just a competitive SEC program—it’s a legitimate MLB pipeline.
The wave of selections began early on Day 1, as junior right-handed pitcher Cole Foster was taken 32nd overall by the Tampa Bay Rays. Foster, who had previously turned down pro opportunities to return to Auburn, was one of the most dominant arms in the SEC this season. He posted a 2.61 ERA, 112 strikeouts, and limited opposing hitters to a .197 average. His fastball consistently touched the upper 90s, and his command of a newly developed cutter impressed scouts all year long.
“I knew this was the year to take that leap,” Foster said after his selection. “Coming back to Auburn was the best decision I made. It prepared me for this moment.”
Foster’s selection was the highest for an Auburn pitcher since Casey Mize went No. 1 overall in 2018, signaling a continued trend of premier pitching development under Thompson’s watch. But Foster wasn’t the only pitcher drawing attention. Senior left-hander Jack Condon went early in the third round to the San Francisco Giants. Known for his durability and off-speed arsenal, Condon finished the season with a 10–2 record and a team-high 94 innings pitched.
Condon’s story is one of perseverance. After battling injury setbacks earlier in his career, he emerged in 2025 as a reliable weekend starter and a clubhouse leader. His blend of maturity and command made him an easy pick for scouts looking for a polished college arm ready to advance quickly through the minors.
Following Condon, Auburn outfielder Cam Hill was taken by the Chicago Cubs in the fifth round. Hill’s blend of speed, defense, and improved bat-to-ball skills helped elevate his draft stock. He led the Tigers in stolen bases and outfield assists, showing the kind of two-way value that MLB teams covet. His .314 batting average and clutch performances during the SEC Tournament didn’t hurt either.
“It’s all about consistency,” Hill said. “Coach Thompson and the staff helped me slow the game down and just focus on playing my style of baseball.”
Another major moment came when second baseman Brennan Lambert was drafted in the sixth round by the New York Mets. A versatile defender with sneaky power, Lambert served as Auburn’s spark plug in the lineup, batting .308 with 12 home runs and 45 RBIs. His gritty approach, combined with elite baseball instincts, made him a favorite among scouts looking for high-character players with upside.
Rounding out the historic class were relief pitcher Drew McDaniel and utility man Marcus Vaughn. McDaniel, a flame-throwing righty who served as Auburn’s closer, was selected by the Milwaukee Brewers in the ninth round. He notched 11 saves and routinely hit 98 mph on the radar gun. Vaughn, who bounced between third base, shortstop, and even corner outfield positions, was picked up by the Los Angeles Angels in the 11th round.
“Marcus gave us so much flexibility this year,” Thompson said. “He was the glue guy—always ready, always competing. You need players like that to win in the SEC.”
For Thompson and his staff, this draft class is the culmination of years of hard work—on the recruiting trail, in player development, and in culture building. Since taking over the program, Thompson has emphasized growth through experience, mental toughness, and adaptability—traits that clearly resonated with MLB front offices.
“This is what we’ve been working toward,” Thompson said. “We want our players to leave Auburn better than when they arrived. Whether it’s through physical development, mental training, or leadership, our goal is always to prepare them for what comes next.”
The six-player total not only set a new program benchmark but also placed Auburn among the national leaders in total draft picks for 2025. That’s particularly impressive given the SEC’s depth and the increasing parity across college baseball.
What makes this achievement even more notable is the balance between upperclassmen and underclassmen, showcasing Auburn’s ability to develop players over time while also identifying talent capable of contributing early in their careers. It also reinforces the program’s reputation as one that doesn’t just recruit talent—but refines it.
“These young men represent everything we want Auburn baseball to be,” said Athletic Director John Cohen. “They worked hard, they represented the university with class, and now they’re going to have a chance to chase their dreams at the next level.”
The impact of this record-setting draft will extend far beyond 2025. For current players, it sets a standard of excellence and provides real-world proof that the program can lead them to professional baseball. For recruits, it serves as a powerful statement that Auburn is a place where careers are launched, not stalled.
And for the fans, it’s a reason to believe that even bigger things are ahead.
“It’s exciting for the fanbase,” Thompson said. “They’ve supported us through thick and thin. Now they get to watch our guys play under the lights of Major League Baseball, knowing they started their journey in Auburn, Alabama.”
Several of the newly drafted players have already announced plans to sign professionally and forego their remaining collegiate eligibility. Others are weighing their options, depending on signing bonuses and contract negotiations. But regardless of where they land, one thing is clear—they’ve left a lasting mark on Auburn baseball.
Back on campus, the program is already preparing for the 2026 season, and the coaching staff is using this draft momentum as fuel for the next phase of development. Younger players now step into leadership roles, inspired by the success of those who came before them. The message is simple: the blueprint is working—follow it, and your name could be next.
In a sport where individual achievement often takes center stage, the 2025 MLB Draft was a reminder that collective effort breeds success. Auburn didn’t just produce one or two standout players—it produced a core group ready for the next level. That speaks to culture, consistency, and coaching.
As the curtain closes on this record-setting draft for Auburn, there’s little time for reflection. The work continues, the goals remain lofty, and the mission stays the same: compete, develop, and send Tigers to the pros.
For now, though, the program can enjoy a well-earned moment of pride. Six Tigers are heading to the big leagues—and Auburn baseball has never looked more ready for prime time.
