MLB 2nd-Round Pick Angel Cervantes Opts for UCLA Over Pirates

Angel Cervantes, a highly ranked right-handed pitcher selected 50th overall by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 2025 MLB Draft, has decided to forego a $1.93 million signing bonus to play college baseball at UCLA. Cervantes, noted for his mid-90s fastball and a standout "Bugs Bunny" changeup, is a key recruit for UCLA's baseball program, which recently reached the College World Series and is ranked No. 1 by Baseball America. His decision marks a rare case of a top-50 draft pick choosing college over immediate professional play, impacting the Pirates' draft pool and allowing them a compensation pick in the 2026 MLB Draft. The Pirates, who have historically seen some high draft picks opt for college, will lose the slot money for Cervantes but gain flexibility in signing other draftees. UCLA's pitching staff is expected to benefit greatly from Cervantes' arrival, addressing a previous weakness in their starting rotation. This move highlights the increasing role of collegiate baseball and potential Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities influencing top prospects' career decisions.