KENNESAW, Ga. - Kennesaw State pitcher Nate Helman was selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 17th round of the 2026 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft on Sunday, becoming the 498th overall pick.
Helman is the 76th player in program history to be selected in the MLB Draft and extends Kennesaw State's streak to 18 consecutive full-length drafts with at least one selection, dating back to 2008. The Dana Point, Calif., native is the second Owl ever drafted by the Pirates, joining Mason Ward (2017), while his selection marks the fourth consecutive season a KSU right-handed pitcher has been chosen.
Nate Helman (17th Round | 498th Overall | Pittsburgh Pirates)
- A high-leverage arm out of the Kennesaw State bullpen
- Appeared in 38 games (4 starts) over two seasons with the Owls
- Posted 40 strikeouts in 31.0 innings during the 2026 season
- Struck out at least three batters in six consecutive appearances from Feb. 28-April 7
- Tossed five consecutive scoreless outings during that stretch
Kennesaw State in the MLB Draft
- Helman became the 76th MLB Draft selection in program history
- Second Owl selected by the Pirates, joining Mason Ward (2017)
- KSU has produced at least one draft pick in 18 consecutive full-length MLB Drafts (excluding the five-round 2020 draft)
- Marks the fourth straight season a KSU right-handed pitcher has been selected
The Champions Fund
The Champions Fund is a newly created, 100% tax deductible, philanthropic opportunity to contribute strategic revenue to Kennesaw State Athletics, with the goal of strengthening our ability to recruit and retain top-tier talent in this new era of collegiate athletics. Contributions to the Champions Fund will help aid in funding student-athlete recruitment and retention, as well as helping the Owls provide competitive excellence through investments in coaching, travel and facilities. The fund will also give an elevated student-athlete experience, including enhanced academic, nutrition, wellness and leadership programs. Donate to the Champions Fund here and help us support our Kennesaw State Owls.
