Diamondbacks selected Arkansas C Ryder Helfrick with the No. 15 selection of the 2026 MLB Draft.
Helfrick was a considerable source of power for the Razorbacks, hitting 33 homers in his sophomore junior seasons including 18 in 2026. The 21-year-old swings from the right side, and as you can probably guess from those power numbers, there’s potential for plus pop in his swing; the type you see in hitters who routinely hit 30 homers or thereabouts. The hit tool, however, is more of a question mark. He struck out 55 times in 62 games for Arkansas last season, and while it also came with 55 walks, the patience along with long levers makes him someone who likely won’t hit for a high average; even if he does post a solid on-base percentage. He should be a solid defender behind the plate, and hitters who can pile up the homers while playing backstop always have a place on a roster.
