The Mountaineers had five players selected in the MLB Draft, but a couple of surprising players went undrafted. Among the most dramatic is Sam White, who had an outstanding season in 2025. The junior posted the highest average on the team last season, but every MLB team overlooked them during this year’s draft. The other notable undrafted players included Jack Kartsonas and Gavin Van Kempen. Read more: Sam White Went Undrafted in the MLB Draft.
Sam White Went Undrafted in the MLB Draft
Scouts projected Sam White to get selected between rounds 15-20, but no team called his name. The junior infielder batted .361 in 2025 and .305 in 2024 with the Mountaineers. His power dipped slightly from 2024 to 2025. He had 10 home runs in his sophomore season and only five in his junior season. His slugging percentage increased from .498 to .529, and his OPS rose from .903 to .955.
Related: Five WV Black Bears Players Taken in MLB Draft
White only played 22 games at second base this season, but was the designated hitter in 29. His bat was a key component in the Mountaineers’ postseason run. He was second on the team with 46 RBIs and led the team in hits with 69. He also stole nine bases on 14 attempts in 2025.
What Does It Mean?
Sam White is eligible to return to WVU in 2026, which would help head coach Steve Sabins immensely. The utility man would be a blessing for next season due to his bat, but he could also be the everyday second baseman for WVU. White also caught 16 games in 2024 and played 31 games in left field. He has also played 31 games at third base in his career at WVU. White can play multiple positions, which will give Sabins flexibility in 2026.
Sam White went undrafted. With that, I’d lock him in as a return to WVU next season. https://t.co/e6lonYAN3n
— James (@mountaineerjdub) July 15, 2025
The biggest thing he brings to the table is his bat. He is batting .310 through three seasons in Morgantown. He has consistently produced during his time with WVU and would be an invaluable piece to the team next season as they attempt to make another deep run in the postseason.
White’s Decision After Being Undrafted
White could potentially sign with a team as an undrafted free agent, but that is unlikely. He can return to WVU and improve his projections with another stellar season. It was surprising that he went undrafted, but it will not happen again if he produces similar or better statistics in 2026.
White’s versatility is another factor that left people surprised he went undrafted. He can play behind the plate, in the outfield, and at multiple infield positions. His bat is important, and you can find a place for him in the field. The adage “they’ll find a position for you if you can hit” rings true regarding White. His bat will help him find his way in the lineup, and his willingness to play different positions helps him fill needed positions.
The Canadian also suffered a shoulder injury while celebrating a home run in 2025. He missed 10 games due to the injury, but looked fine upon his return. The 21-year-old has a promising career ahead of himself, but it will likely have to wait after his senior season at WVU.
