Florida right-handed pitcher Russell Sandefer was selected with the No. 132 overall pick by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the fourth round of the 2026 MLB Draft.
With Sandefer’s selection, the Orange & Blue has recorded at least three draft picks in every season of O’Sullivan’s 19-year tenure – a streak which dates back 25 years through the 2002 MLB Draft (excluding the COVID-shortened, 2020 Draft).
Sandefer appeared in 19 games during the 2026 season, including 12 starts, 10 of which came as part of Florida’s weekend rotation. He finished with a 3-2 record, 4.42 ERA, 1.30 WHIP, and held opposing hitters to a .240 batting average. The Tampa, Florida native struck out 60 batters and walked 22 across 57.0 innings pitched.
Sandefer was named to the Gainesville Regional All-Tournament Team after earning the win against Rider on May 29 behind 5 2/3 shutout frames with two hits allowed, one walk and five strikeouts. His best performance of the season came vs. Ole Miss on April 4, when he set career highs with 7.0 innings pitched and 11 strikeouts while scattering two hits and one walk.
Prior to his time in Gainesville, Sandefer spent one season at UCF and Saint Leo, respectively.
Running List of Florida’s 2026 MLB Draft Picks (3)
RHP Liam Peterson – Round 1, Pick 19 (Cleveland Guardians)
OF Kyle Jones – Round 3, Pick 102 (Milwaukee Brewers)
RHP Russell Sandefer – Round 4, Pick 132 (Los Angeles Dodgers)