Molina Dominates in Final College Season for Arkansas
In his last year playing for the University of Arkansas, pitcher Molina proved to be a dominant force on the mound. With his impressive skills and determination, he led the Razorbacks to a successful season and solidified his place as one of the top players in college baseball.
Throughout the season, Molina consistently delivered strong performances, striking out batters and leading his team to victory. His talent and leadership were crucial in the Razorbacks’ journey to the College World Series.
Not only did Molina excel on the field, but he also showed his dedication to his team and the sport. He worked tirelessly to improve his skills and was always willing to help his teammates do the same.
As his final season came to a close, Molina’s impact on the Arkansas baseball program was undeniable. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, determination, and success, and will surely be missed by his coaches, teammates, and fans.
But Molina’s journey is far from over. With his impressive college career behind him, he is now ready to take on the next level and continue to make a name for himself
Former Razorbacks Molina and Franklin Traded to MLB Teams
By Dudley E. Dawson
FAYETTEVILLE – Two former University of Arkansas baseball players, pitcher Mason Molina and outfielder Christian Franklin, were part of a flurry of trades in Major League Baseball on Thursday.
The left-handed Molina, who stands at 6 feet 2 inches and weighs 230 pounds, was one of two minor leaguers sent to the St. Louis Cardinals from the Texas Rangers in exchange for relief pitcher Phil Maton.
The deal, which also included right-handed pitcher Skyler Hales and International bonus pool money, was finalized just before the 5 p.m. CST deadline.
Franklin, who played for the Chicago Cubs, was traded to the Washington Nationals.
Molina, who played his final college season for the Razorbacks, had a record of 6-2 with a 3.67 ERA and led the team with 108 strikeouts in 83.1 innings. He was drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers in the seventh round of the 2024 MLB draft, but was later traded to the Rangers for Grant Anderson.
In his minor league career, Molina has a record of 3-5 with a 3.19 ERA in 20 games, including 17 starts. This summer, he played for the High A Peoria Chiefs and had a record of 3-5 with a 3.19 ERA in 18 games.
Hales was ranked as the 28th top prospect in the Rangers organization, while Molina was ranked No. 30.
Franklin, who was a fourth-round pick of the Cubs in 2021, had a successful career at Arkansas, hitting .288 with 22 home runs, 99 RBIs, and 26 stolen bases. He spent the 2025 season with the Iowa Cubs in Triple-A, where he had a batting average of .265 with eight home runs, 43 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases.
In his minor league career, Franklin has a batting average of .261 with 26 home runs, 145 RBIs, and 63 stolen bases. He missed the entire 2022 season due to a torn patella in his left knee.
Photo by John D. James
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