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Phillies Draft the Guy Who Struck Out 19 Batters in a College World Series No-Hitter
By Luke Arcaini
Published:
The Phillies made a shocking pick on Sunday night, drafting Arkansas RHP Gage Wood with the 26th pick in the MLB Draft.
Wood, 21, started 10 games for the Razorbacks in 2025. He logged a 3.82 ERA after starting his season on the bench with a shoulder injury.
You may remember Wood from his no-hitter in the World Series. It was one of the most dominant performances in the history of the tournament, with 19 batters whiffing in a 3-0 win:
Wood played three seasons at Arkansas, holding a 4.33 ERA from 2023-2025 in 55 appearances (13 starts) with 167 strikeouts. He struggled with walks early in his college career, but improved his command and held just a 0.903 WHIP in 2025.
This kid has some serious juice, something that this Phillies bullpen definitely needs, especially from the right side. His fastball is incredible. Even after dealing with his shoulder injury early in the season, he came back and touched 97-98 mph.
For the first time in the Brian Barber era, the Phillies selected a college player in the first round. You have to wonder how much of a win-now move this is. Gage Wood is the type of player that the Phillies could fast track to the majors. They need help in the bullpen, and Wood can help with that.
Luke Arcaini writes about the Phillies for Crossing Broad, covers the Phillies for FOX Sports The Gambler, and co-hosts "Phillies Digest" on YouTube. The wave is the worst thing in all of sports. Contact: lukearcaini8@gmail.com