Hawkeyes Pitcher Anthony Watts Drafted by St. Louis Cardinals in 2025 MLB Draft

In a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 MLB Draft, the St. Louis Cardinals have chosen Hawkeyes pitcher Anthony Watts as their fourth and final pick from the University of Iowa’s baseball team. Watts, a standout player for the Hawkeyes, has been selected to join the Cardinals’ roster and continue his baseball career at the professional level.

Watts, known for his impressive pitching skills and strong work ethic, has been a key player for the Hawkeyes throughout his college career. His dedication and talent have not gone unnoticed, as he caught the attention of the Cardinals’ scouts and ultimately secured a spot on their team.

The selection by the Cardinals marks a major milestone for Watts, who has dreamed of playing in the MLB since he was a young boy. With this opportunity, he will have the chance to showcase his abilities on a larger stage and compete against some of the best players in the world.

The St. Louis Cardinals have a long history of success in the MLB, making this an exciting opportunity for Watts to join such a prestigious organization. As he prepares to embark on this new chapter in his baseball career, Watts is grateful for the support of his coaches, teammates, and family who have helped him reach this point.

Congratulations to Anthony Watts on his selection by the St. Louis Cardinals in the 2025 MLB Draft. Hawkeyes fans will surely be cheering him on as he takes the field in his new red and white uniform.  

Iowa Pitcher Anthony Watts Drafted by St. Louis Cardinals in 2025 MLB Draft

Third Hawkeye Chosen in Draft, Joins Teammates Obermueller, Wright, and Savary

As the third Iowa baseball player chosen in the 2025 MLB draft, Anthony Watts has been selected by the St. Louis Cardinals. The 6-foot-4, 175-pound right-handed pitcher from Clive, Iowa was chosen with the No. 420 overall pick in the 14th round on Monday.

Watts joins his teammates Cade Obermueller, Daniel Wright, and Aaron Savary, who were also drafted earlier in the draft. Savary was selected by the Cleveland Guardians just 15 spots before Watts.

During his time with the Hawkeyes, Watts primarily served as a relief pitcher, appearing in 24 games and posting a 4-4 record with a 4.72 ERA. He also recorded 45 strikeouts, only 19 walks, and two saves in 40 innings pitched.

This selection marks the 37th Hawkeye player drafted under head coach Rick Heller. Watts joined the program in 2023-24 after spending one season with Creighton. He still has one year of NCAA eligibility remaining.

While the exact value of Watts’ draft pick is not listed by MLB.com, he does have the option to return to Iowa for his senior season if he chooses not to sign with the Cardinals.

If Watts does sign with St. Louis, he will finish his three-year college baseball career with an 8-8 record and a 4.33 ERA in 129 innings pitched. He also recorded 129 strikeouts and three saves in 59 appearances.

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