The New York Yankees continued a family tradition on Sunday by selecting Luke Pettitte, the son of legendary pitcher Andy Pettitte, in the eighth round of the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft. This pick brings the younger Pettitte into the same organization where his father achieved significant success.
Luke, a versatile two-way player for Dallas Baptist University, garnered recognition during his 2026 collegiate season. He was named to the Second Team All-Central Region by the American Baseball Coaches Association (ABCA) and earned a spot on the First Team All-Conference USA.
While his father was known for his pitching, Luke demonstrated considerable skill at the plate. He was honored as Conference USA Hitter of the Week during the week of May 11, contributing significantly with a .341 batting average, 16 home runs, and 48 runs batted in across 186 plate appearances.
On the mound, Luke, a right-handed pitcher, showed efficiency in his earlier seasons. Across the 2024 and 2025 campaigns, he maintained a 3.19 earned run average, recording 56 strikeouts over 48 total innings. The 21-year-old was sidelined from pitching in 2026 due to Tommy John surgery, though he was still able to contribute as a hitter. Should Luke sign with the Yankees, his highly regarded pitching accuracy will likely be a key factor in how the club chooses to develop him.
Following in Legendary Footsteps
Andy Pettitte, a prominent figure in Yankees history, was originally a 22nd-round pick in 1990 out of Deer Park High School in Texas. Throughout his illustrious 18-season MLB career, Andy spent 15 years with the Yankees, establishing himself as one of the game's premier left-handed starting pitchers. He also had a three-year tenure with the Houston Astros from 2004 to 2006.
A three-time All-Star, five-time World Series champion, and an American League Championship Series (ALCS) Most Valuable Player, Andy Pettitte's career statistics include a 3.85 ERA and 2,448 strikeouts. He was particularly renowned for his devastating 12-6 curveball, which became a signature pitch.
Andy remains connected to the Yankees organization, currently serving as a special advisor. He also previously coached Luke and his other children during their high school baseball careers, further cementing the family's deep roots in the sport.
