The Toronto Blue Jays selected Oregon shortstop Ryan Cooney in the third round of the 2026 MLB Draft on May 30 [1].
The addition of Cooney represents a strategic move to bolster the team's infield depth with a collegiate talent known for his versatility and consistency. By targeting a high-caliber player from the University of Oregon, Toronto aims to integrate a reliable presence into its developmental pipeline.
Toronto selected Cooney with the 103rd overall pick [1]. This move followed the team's earlier selection on the same day, when they took Arizona State left-handed pitcher Cole Carlon with the 39th overall pick [1].
Analysts have already begun drawing comparisons between the new draft pick and existing team members. Some reports noted that Cooney has been compared to Ernie Clement, a utility player and fan favorite for the Blue Jays [6].
Cooney leaves the Oregon Ducks as a highly regarded prospect. His transition to the professional level will see him move from the collegiate ranks in the U.S. to the Toronto organization. The team is looking to build a cohesive 2026 draft class that addresses multiple positions across the diamond [1], [3].
"Toronto tabbed the shortstop from Oregon with the 103rd-overall pick after taking Arizona State lefty Cole Carlon 39th earlier in the day," Sportsnet said [1].
“The Toronto Blue Jays selected Oregon shortstop Ryan Cooney in the third round of the 2026 MLB Draft.”
The selection of Ryan Cooney indicates a focus on high-floor collegiate talent to stabilize the Blue Jays' middle infield. By pairing a versatile shortstop like Cooney with a high-ceiling arm like Cole Carlon, Toronto is balancing its 2026 draft class between immediate developmental stability and long-term pitching potential.
