Home / Sports / Padres Pick USC's Augie Lopez in MLB Draft
Padres Pick USC's Augie Lopez in MLB Draft
13 Jul
Summary
- Augie Lopez selected 22nd in 10th round of 2026 MLB Draft.
- Lopez posted 19 home runs and 57 RBIs in his sophomore season.
- USC's season ended in a tough Super Regional loss.
USC Trojans catcher Augie Lopez heard his name called in the 2026 MLB Draft, selected by the San Diego Padres with the 22nd pick in the 10th round.
Lopez, a 21-year-old from Hermosa Beach, California, spent the past two seasons with USC. As a freshman in 2025, he batted .284 with three home runs and earned Big Ten All-Freshman Team honors. His sophomore campaign in 2026 saw a significant power surge, hitting .278 with 19 home runs and 57 RBIs.
If Lopez signs with the Padres, he would remain in Southern California, as their Single-A affiliate is nearby. However, advancement within their system would take him outside the region before a potential call-up to San Diego.
The Padres, despite recent playoff appearances, are currently struggling in 2026 with a .500 record. Lopez's departure will be a blow to USC, who made the NCAA Tournament in both 2025 and 2026, reaching the Super Regionals this past season before a dramatic game three loss.
USC's 2026 season concluded with a nail-biting 4-3 defeat in the Super Regionals against North Carolina. After winning game one, USC lost game two and ultimately fell in game three, relinquishing a late lead in the bottom of the ninth inning.
