West Valley's Nico Wagner drafted by the Atlanta Braves

Saratoga - The Atlanta Braves drafted ace pitcher Nico Wagner in the 16th round of the 2025 MLB Draft. Wagner becomes the first West Valley baseball player drafted straight out of WVC since 2009 when the Colorado Rockies selected pitcher Chris Balcom-Miller. 

Wagner, a Sophomore transfer from the University of Nevada-Reno, led the Vikings to an appearance in the 3C2A State Championship. In 18 appearances, Wagner led the Vikings with a 9-2 record and 1 Save. Wagner struck out 94 batters in 95.1 innings pitched, finishing the season with an impressive 2.17 ERA. 

In the opening game of the 3C2A State Tournament, Wagner led the Vikings to a 3-2 win over Cypress College with a gritty performance, striking out eight batters over 8.2 innings. 

Wagner, previously committed to Loyola Marymount University, has elected to sign with the Braves and will soon report to the team's training facility in North Port, Florida.

Congratulations, Nico!