Brewers fifth-round pick Aidan Knaak returns to Clemson, impacts draft plans
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 29, 2026, 6:25 PM
Last updated Jul 29, 2026
Aidan Knaak, a fifth-round pick out of Clemson, will not sign with the Milwaukee Brewers and will return for his senior season. This decision affects the Brewers' draft strategy, as they aimed to secure a broader talent pool. Knaak's father indicated that Knaak made significant mechanical adjustments and received a strong NIL offer from Clemson. The Brewers signed 17 of 20 players in the 2026 draft but will not receive a compensatory pick for Knaak, as only players from the first three rounds qualify for such a pick.
- •Aidan Knaak chooses to return to Clemson instead of signing with Brewers.
- •Brewers expected to sign a wider range of players in the draft.
- •Knaak led Clemson's pitching staff despite a 5.81 ERA.
- •Brewers retain 17 of their 20 draft picks, including top four selections.
- •Teams only get compensatory picks for unsigned players in the first three rounds.
- 6:25 PMYahoo Sports — Why a fifth-round pick not signing with Brewers has ramifications
"The Brewers draft process took a (likely unexpected) hit when fifth-round pitcher Aidan Knaak out of Clemson chose not to sign and return to school.
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