The Chicago White Sox selected Tennessee relief pitcher Mark McLaughlin with the 221st pick in the 2022 MLB Draft. The seventh round pick is the ninth Tennessee player taken in this year’s draft.
McLaughlin’s selection marks a new record for most Tennessee players selected in a single MLB Draft and the Vols accomplished it in just seven round. The MLB Draft was 40-rounds until COVID-19 shortened the 2022 draft.
Taken with the 25th pick in the seventh round, McLaughlin’s slot value is $205,800. The tall right-hander could return to Tennessee for his senior season or begin his professional career if he can come to a contract agreement with the White Sox.
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McLaughlin’s role steadily increased over the course of his junior season as the Johns Creek, Georgia native posted a 2-1 record and 2.01 ERA in 31.1 innings pitched. The 6-foot-3, 205-pound reliever boasts a mid-90s fastball and a solid repertoire of off speed pitches that make him an attractive draft candidate.
McLaughlin was a crucial member of Tennessee’s bullpen each of the last two seasons, throwing over 65 innings.
The right-hander joins Drew Gilbert, Jordan Beck, Blade Tidwell, Trey Lipscomb, Ben Joyce, Will Mabrey, Jorel Ortega and Seth Stephenson as Volunteers selected in the 2022 MLB Draft.
