The 2026 MLB Draft began on Saturday at 1 p.m. ET., and as the Arizona Diamondbacks are preparing for the second contest of a three-game set against the Los Angeles Dodgers, they also selected Ryder Helfrick with the No. 15 pick.

Helfrick, a 21-year-old catcher out of Arkansas, makes his way to the organization after playing for the Razorbacks from 2024-26. According to his MLB.com prospect profile, Helfrick is considered to be a cerebral backstop.

Additionally, Helfrick becomes the first catcher in program history to be selected in the first round. Scouts laud him for his ability to call pitches and run a pitching staff, and he has been referred to as "more advanced than most college catchers" as a result.

According to his college profile, Helfrick appeared in 31 games during his freshman season at Arkansas in 2024, 26 of which were starts. As a hitter, his numbers were rather abysmal (slash line of .179/.320/.321), but he began to establish himself as a strong defender by posting a .994 fielding percentage while only committing one error in 167 total chances.

Additionally, Helfrick threw out five of the 11 baserunners attempting to steal. During his sophomore season, Helfrick played a bigger role, and he improved as a result.

In 2025, Helfrick appeared in 61 games, 56 of which he started. He raised his slash line to .305/.420/.616 and hit 15 home runs while logging 38 RBIs. As a catcher, he committed only three errors in 629 total chances, which was good for a .995 fielding percentage. 

Helfrick earned multiple accolades for his efforts, including ABCA/Rawlings South All-Region First Team and NCAA Fayetteville Regional Tournament MVP. By his junior season, Helfrick had come into his own as a force to be reckoned with behind the plate.

In 2026, Helfrick started all 62 games at catcher and posted a .989 fielding percentage. His play earned him recognition as an All-American talent, and he became the third catcher in Arkansas history to be named an All-American. 

Helfrick was also named college baseball’s best defender last season after finishing first in defensive runs saved, framing runs saved, and defensive wins above replacement.

Helfrick may not ever have the best bat, but his defensive acumen and ability to guide pitchers are key traits that Arizona may be able to relish sooner than later. At 21, he also has plenty of time to develop.

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