JMU’s McGrath selected by the Cubs in 18th round of MLB Draft

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Photo: JMU Athletics

HARRISONBURG, Va. (JMU Athletics) – James Madison redshirt sophomore pitcher Luke McGrath was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 18th round (547th overall) of the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft on Sunday, July 12.

McGrath becomes the 14th player selected in the MLB Draft under Head Coach Marlin Ikenberry and the first Duke selected in the draft since Joe Vogatsky went in the 19th round of the 2024 draft. He is the first JMU player to be selected by the Chicago Cubs since John Mincone was taken in the 1tth round of the 2007 draft by the North Siders.

McGrath, a native of Charlotte, N.C., made 24 appearances on the mound for the Purple and Gold in 2026, logging 28.0 innings pitched with 28 punchouts along with four saves. He struck out a career-high four batters at Georgetown on March 31 in 1.1 scoreless while also earning the save.

Incoming freshman Lee Garris was also selected in the 2026 MLB Draft, being taken in the 13th round by the New York Yankees.

— JMU Athletics —

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