Two Michigan State Baseball Stars Selected in 2026 MLB Draft

Two former Michigan State baseball players are getting their shot at the next level after hearing their names called during the 2026 MLB Draft.

Nolan Higgins Selected by the Toronto Blue Jays

Pitcher Nolan Higgins and outfielder Nick Williams were both selected Sunday, adding two more Spartans to the growing list of players drafted under head coach Jake Boss Jr.

Higgins was taken by the Toronto Blue Jays in the fifth round, 164th overall pick. The Wixom native spent four seasons at Michigan State and appeared in 75 games during his college career.

How Nolan Higgins Became Michigan State’s Closer

After working mostly as a starter earlier in his time at MSU, Higgins moved into the bullpen during his senior season and became the Spartans' primary closer. He made 27 relief appearances in 2026, finishing with four saves and 62 strikeouts over 45 innings.

Higgins also helped close out Michigan State's two wins during the Big Ten Tournament, where the Spartans became the first No. 12 seed to win multiple games in the event.

Nick Williams Drafted by the Washington Nationals

Williams was selected by the Washington Nationals in the 10th round with the 286th overall pick.

The Racine, Wisconsin native played three seasons in East Lansing after transferring from Wabash Valley Community College. He finished his MSU career with a .304 batting average, 160 hits, 39 doubles, 18 home runs and 93 RBIs.

Nick Williams Finishes MSU Career on a Hot Streak

Williams put together a strong final season, hitting .333 and ending the year on a 16-game hitting streak. During that stretch, he hit .508 and recorded 32 hits.

Both players also completed their degrees at Michigan State before beginning the next chapter of their baseball careers.

Michigan State’s MLB Draft History Under Jake Boss Jr.

With both players being drafted, Michigan State has now had 41 selections during Boss' tenure. Higgins and Williams also become the sixth Spartan players drafted over the last four years.