UH Pitcher Isaiah Magdaleno Enters Transfer Portal Ahead of MLB Draft

The University of Hawaii's standout pitcher, Isaiah Magdaleno, has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal. This decision comes as he looks to broaden his opportunities in anticipation of the upcoming Major League Baseball draft next month.

Magdaleno is optimistic about being picked in the 20-round draft, having become eligible after completing three years at a four-year institution. With another year of NCAA eligibility still available, he finds himself in a strong position for negotiations, providing him with a backup plan should he not be drafted.

“The main goal is to get into pro ball right now,” Magdaleno stated in a recent interview with the Honolulu Star-Advertiser. “That’s No. 1. After that, it’s going from there.” The talented right-hander has also left the door open for a potential return to UH if he does not hear his name called in the draft. He reflected on his experience at the university, saying, “I feel I wouldn’t be in the place I am without Hawaii. I don’t mean just baseball but everything about it.”

After being recognized as a closer on the 2025 All-Big West first team, Magdaleno transitioned to a starting role this season. In 2026, he ranked fifth in the nation with a 0.92 WHIP, sixth in hits allowed per nine innings (5.38), and thirteenth in ERA (2.36). During an impressive stretch in May, he allowed just one run over 32 1/3 innings, striking out 43 batters while walking only three. His performance earned him spots on two All-America third teams.