Blues Sign Colin Ralph To Entry-Level Deal

The Blues signed Michigan State defenseman Colin Ralph to an entry-level contract on Friday, per a team press release. It is a three-year pact that will begin next season. Financial terms were not disclosed.

Ralph, a physical two-way lefty, was the first of St. Louis’ two second-round picks in 2024, going 48th overall out of premier Minnesota prep school Shattuck St. Mary’s. Standing at 6’4″ and 229 lbs, that size – plus his 66 points in 57 games against under-18 competition to lead Shattuck defenders in scoring in his draft year – made him an attractive candidate for a Blues club that continually prioritizes size on its blue line, although most scouts had him pegged as a third-round talent at best.

The Minnesota native stayed in his home state in 2024-25, suiting up for St. Cloud State as a freshman. He had some growing pains, though, finishing the year with eight points and a -4 rating in 35 games. He quickly entered the transfer portal and landed with Michigan State. He now turns pro after just one year with the Spartans, but his sophomore effort was a strong one. He pushed for a bit more playing time and ended up with a 1-10–11 scoring line and a +20 rating in 37 outings.

Ralph’s frame and lack of offensive utility thus far at higher levels indicate he’ll be more of a shutdown piece at the pro level. He did win gold at last year’s World Junior Championship as a depth rearguard for the United States, posting an assist in seven games. Ralph is the #8-ranked Blues prospect according to Scott Wheeler of The Athletic and Steven Ellis of Daily Faceoff, sitting fourth in the pool among defenders.

He’ll now have an initial three-year track, most of which will likely be spent with AHL Springfield, before the Blues have to make their first decision on whether or not to retain him. He likely won’t be very high on the list for a recall next year, but should push for initial NHL playing time in 2027-28 or 2028-29.