From early on in his varsity career, Franklin Regional’s Luke Williams had the look of a future professional. That came to fruition over the weekend, as Williams was selected by the Washington Nationals in the third round of the MLB Draft.

Williams, a shortstop for the Panthers, was chosen 78th overall on Saturday. Although he pledged collegiately to Vanderbilt University to continue on the diamond, he is now likely to sign a deal with Washington to begin his pro career.

Franklin Regional head coach Bobby Saddler knew he had a special talent when Williams was still in the infancy stages of his career at FR.

“His arm, his bat, his speed. They all just stood out. How hard he works, it’s next level, as well,” Saddler noted. “Whenever you have the attributes and the drive, the determination, the work ethic that he does, you put those two together and you’re like, ‘This kid is going to do something special.”’

Williams was on college radars before his freshman season even began, resulting in a commitment to the University of Virginia when he was still in ninth grade. Just over a year ago, he switched his pledge to the Commodores. But as the spotlight brightened on Williams, he continued to show his immense talent, resulting in his selection on the first day of the draft.

“He enjoyed the moment. Whenever he got the phone call, he was relieved,” Saddler revealed.

While his offensive attributes have been heralded for years, Williams’ speed and arm strength might be just as impressive. Thus, he will likely occupy a premium position when he enters the pro ranks – either remaining at shortstop, or shifting to center field.

“I believe that he can play shortstop at the next level,” said Saddler, citing numerous highlights Williams produced in the dirt in 2026. “He was making those plays throughout the course of the year where I just look at the other coach and shake my head and laugh.

“If they want to move him to center field, he’s an athlete. He’s going to be able to track fly balls. He’s going to cover gap to gap,” he added.

In his senior season with FR, Williams hit .465 with four homers, 33 runs, 17 RBIs, and 33 stolen bases. Collectively, the Panthers went 13-7, including 7-5 in Class 5A Section 1. Although Franklin Regional qualified for the WPIAL playoffs, the Panthers were ousted by South Fayette in the first round to conclude the season.

“He’s one of the best baseball players to ever come through Franklin Regional. I think the impact he made with younger players was incredible,” Saddler reflected. “People are going to remember him for a long time.”

Luke Williams did not respond to an interview request