FSU's Cole Stokes selected by Tampa Bay Rays in the 2026 MLB draft

FSU reliever Cole Stokes has been drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays with the No. 353 overall pick in the 2026 MLB draft. He is FSU's first draft pick of the night.

Stokes appeared in 18 games for the Seminoles, going 1-2 with a 5.60 ERA in 17 2/3 innings. Opponents hit just .

164 off him, but he walked 20 batters and was never able to find his command. The righty struck out 25 hitters and threw six wild pitches.While the results were not always great, if the Rays can help Stokes improve his command, he has the chance to be a steal due to his velocity.

He also has a great frame at 6-foot-6 and 229 pounds.Stokes spent just one season in Tallahassee after starting his career with the Oregon Ducks. The Redondo Beach, California product appeared in 32 games for the Ducks, going 1-2 with two saves in 29 innings.

He had a 3.10 ERA and held opponents to a .130 batting average, walking 26 and striking out 46 hitters.

He is the fifth FSU pitcher taken already, joining Wes Mendes, Bryson Moore, Trey Beard, and Brodie Purcell.Follow us @FSUWire on X and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Florida State news, notes, and opinions.This article originally appeared on FSU Wire: FSU's Cole Stokes selected by Tampa Bay Rays in the 2026 MLB draft