University of Michigan standout infielder earns his professional opportunity after an outstanding junior season highlighted by First Team All-Big Ten honors.
Colby Turner's baseball journey reached a defining milestone on Sunday as the University of Michigan infielder was selected by the Minnesota Twins in the 12th round of the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft. Chosen with the 347th overall pick, Turner now takes the next step toward fulfilling his dream of playing in Major League Baseball. His selection is the reward for years of hard work and an exceptional collegiate season that established him as one of the Big Ten Conference's premier middle infielders.
Turner enters professional baseball after producing one of the finest offensive campaigns of his college career. During his junior season at Michigan, he started 57 of the Wolverines' 58 games, primarily at second base, while earning First Team All-Big Ten honors. He finished the season batting .366 with a .432 on-base percentage and a .625 slugging percentage, leading the team in batting average, slugging percentage, hits (85), runs scored (57), RBIs (55), doubles (18), home runs (14), and extra-base hits (32).
Turner's offensive breakout significantly elevated his draft stock throughout the 2026 season. His 1.057 OPS ranked among the best in the conference, while his ability to produce more extra-base hits than strikeouts showcased the combination of power and contact that attracted professional scouts. His development from his first season in the Big Ten to his junior campaign reflected both maturity and continued improvement at the plate.
The Minnesota Twins have consistently valued experienced college players capable of contributing throughout their minor league system, and Turner fits that profile well. Twins Daily's draft analysis described him as an aggressive hitter with impressive contact and power, while noting that continued improvements in plate discipline will be an important part of his professional development. The analysis also highlighted his offensive upside as one of the reasons Minnesota selected him on Day Two of the draft.
Although Turner has spent most of his collegiate career at second base, his athleticism has allowed him to contribute in multiple defensive roles. Michigan utilized him primarily in the middle infield while also giving him opportunities in the outfield during the season. That defensive versatility could become an asset as he begins his professional career and works within the Twins' player development system.
For the University of Michigan baseball program, Turner's selection represents another successful transition from college baseball to the professional ranks. Michigan has long been recognized for developing players capable of competing at the next level, and Turner's draft selection reinforces the program's reputation for producing high-quality talent. His accomplishments during the 2026 season made him one of the Wolverines' most consistent and productive players from Opening Day through the postseason.
Being selected in the 12th round does not define a player's ceiling, but rather provides an opportunity to begin the next phase of development. Numerous Major League players have built successful careers after being chosen outside the early rounds, proving that determination, performance, and continued growth remain the most important factors once a player enters professional baseball.
Turner now joins a Twins organization that continues to invest in player development throughout its farm system. The coming months will likely see him begin his professional career in the minor leagues, where he will focus on refining his game while adapting to the demands of professional baseball. Every level presents new challenges, but Turner has already demonstrated throughout his collegiate career that he possesses the work ethic and competitive mindset necessary to continue progressing.
For family, teammates, coaches, and Michigan fans, Sunday's announcement marked a proud and memorable moment. Draft day is more than hearing a player's name called it represents years of sacrifice, countless hours of preparation, and unwavering commitment to the game. Turner's selection is a testament to the dedication he displayed throughout his baseball journey and the success he achieved wearing the Wolverines uniform.
Congratulations to Colby Turner on being selected by the Minnesota Twins in the 12th round of the 2026 MLB Draft. With an outstanding collegiate résumé, First Team All-Big Ten recognition, and an opportunity to develop within one of baseball's respected farm systems, Turner now begins an exciting new chapter. As he embarks on his professional career, baseball fans will be eager to follow his progress and watch the next stage of his journey unfold.
