Jackson Flora- 2026 MLB Draft Prospect
Position: RHP
School: UC Santa Barbara Gauchos
Height / Weight: 6'5" / 205 lbs
Bats / Throws: Right / Right
Hometown: Pleasanton, California
High School: Foothill HS (CA)
College Career Statistics
Season W–L ERA IP SO BB WHIP
2024 3–2 3.83 47.0 54 20 1.28
2025 6–3 3.60 75.0 86 17 1.00
2026* 3–0 1.00 18.0 21 4 0.833
\* 2026 statistics through first three starts of the season
Summary
Jackson Flora is a 6'5", 205-pound right-hander who has emerged as UC Santa Barbara’s ace and a top pitching prospect for the 2026 MLB Draft. After a relief-heavy freshman year, he transitioned to the rotation in 2025 and became one of the Big West’s most dominant arms. Scouts view him as a potential frontline starter thanks to his size, velocity, and advanced command.
Scouting Report
Fastball: Upper-90s, can touch triple digits; heavy life and downhill plane from a 6'5" frame.
Slider: Sweeping, sharp late break; primary swing-and-miss pitch.
Changeup: Improved third pitch that neutralizes left-handed hitters.
Command: Exceptional for a power pitcher; consistently limits walks while attacking the strike zone.
Mound Presence: Size, velocity, and competitiveness project well for a professional starter role.
Notable Performance
Complete-game one-hit shutout vs. Cal Poly (2025): Struck out nine and showcased his ability to dominate top collegiate competition.
2026 Outlook
Flora entered 2026 with national recognition and Preseason All-America honors. Through his first three starts he is 3–0 with a 1.00 ERA, 21 strikeouts in 18.0 innings, and a 0.833 WHIP. Teams seeking a potential frontline starter will likely have him near the top of their boards, and he projects as a strong candidate to be the first pitcher selected on draft night.
Quick Take: Big-bodied, high-velocity right-hander with a plus slider, improving changeup, and pro-ready command - a top-of-the-board starter projection.