Texas LHP Nick Kennedy selected in fifth round by Colorado Rockies

Sophomore left-handed pitcher Nick Kennedy was selected by the Colorado Rockies in the fifth round of the MLB draft on Tuesday afternoon with pick No.146.

Kennedy served as Texas’ mid-week starter and as a prominent reliever in 2017, notching an 8-2 record with a 3.02 ERA in 53.2 innings pitched. He was named as a Gregg Olson award semifinalist, which is given to college baseball’s breakout player of the year.

The projected slot amount for Kennedy should he go pro is $343,100.

If Kennedy returns, he will be a weekend starter for the ‘Horns. If he doesn’t, Texas will likely look to JUCO commit Blake Pflughaupt to serve as David Pierce’s top lefty arm.

Kennedy becomes the second active Longhorn selected in the MLB draft, after Morgan Cooper was picked in the second round by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Texas signees Tristen Lutz (No. 34 to the Brewers) and Landon Leach (No. 37 to the Twins) were also selected.

Right-handed pitcher Kyle Johnston should also hear his name called later today. Stay tuned.