Two Hermits Selected in 2026 MLB Draft: Alex Weingartner '26 and Andrew Gaines '22

St. Augustine Prep celebrates a landmark day as Alex Weingartner ’26 and Andrew Gaines ’22 hear their names called in the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft.

It was a historic day for the Hermit Brotherhood and St. Augustine Prep Baseball as two alumni were selected in the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft, continuing the program’s proud tradition of developing student-athletes who compete at the highest level.

Alex Weingartner ’26 was selected by the Chicago White Sox in the 6th Round (166th overall), becoming the first New Jersey high school player selected in the 2026 MLB Draft after one of the most decorated careers in school history.

Later in the draft, Andrew Gaines ’22 was selected by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 10th Round, earning his opportunity after an outstanding collegiate career at Saint Joseph’s University.

Together, the selections marked another milestone for one of New Jersey’s premier high school baseball programs.

Alex Weingartner Caps Historic Senior Season

Weingartner entered the draft as one of the nation’s top high school prospects after an unforgettable senior campaign.

The two-way standout led the Hermits to the South Jersey Non-Public A Championship while earning numerous individual honors, including:

• 2025-26 New Jersey Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year
• The Press of Atlantic City Player of the Year
• First New Jersey high school player selected in the 2026 MLB Draft  

2026 Season Statistics

At the Plate

• .495 batting average
• 46 runs scored
• 7 home runs
• 36 RBIs

On the Mound

• 6-1 record
• 0.87 ERA
• 81 strikeouts in 48⅓ innings

His postseason heroics became part of Hermits Baseball lore, highlighted by a walk-off grand slam in the South Jersey semifinal before pitching a complete-game shutout to capture the sectional championship.

Originally committed to Penn State, Weingartner now potentially begins his professional career with the White Sox organization.

Andrew Gaines Earns His Opportunity

Four years after graduating from St. Augustine Prep, Andrew Gaines ’22 realized his dream of professional baseball when the Milwaukee Brewers selected the right-handed pitcher in the 10th Round.

Following his career at the Prep, Gaines continued his development at Saint Joseph’s University, where he emerged as one of the Atlantic 10 Conference’s top relievers.

Among his accomplishments during the 2026 season:

• Atlantic 10 All-Conference Second Team
• Named to the NCBWA Stopper of the Year Midseason Watch List
• Tied Saint Joseph’s single-season saves record with 10 saves

His selection is a testament to years of growth, perseverance, and dedication to his craft.

A Program Built on Brotherhood

Having two Hermits selected in the same Major League Baseball Draft reflects the tradition of success that has defined St. Augustine Prep Baseball for decades.

Whether developing standout high school talent like Weingartner or preparing student-athletes to flourish in college before reaching professional baseball like Gaines, Coach Ney's program continues to produce young men who compete with passion, humility, and integrity.

The success of both players also serves as an inspiration to current and future Hermits, demonstrating what is possible through hard work, commitment, and the unwavering support of teammates, coaches, families, and the St. Augustine Prep family.

Congratulations, Alex and Andrew!

The entire St. Augustine Prep family congratulates Alex Weingartner ’26 and Andrew Gaines ’22 on this extraordinary achievement.

We are incredibly proud of all they have accomplished while representing the Hermit Brotherhood and look forward to following their journeys as they take the next step toward a Major League Baseball career.

The future is bright for these two Hermits—and the Prep family will be cheering them on every step of the way.