Lance Hartley, a 20‑year‑old right‑handed pitcher from Cameron, Texas, heard his name called in the 12th round of the Major League Baseball draft, becoming the 359th overall selection by the Kansas City Royals.
The Royals announced that Hartley will sign a professional contract and report to a rehab program expected to last nearly a year, following a hybrid Tommy John surgery performed on June 8. The procedure marks the latest step in his recovery after a standout college season at the College of Central Florida, where he posted a 3.38 ERA and a .88 WHIP in 16 innings.
Reflecting on the moment, Hartley described the draft day as the biggest of his life and a lifelong dream realized. He added that he is grateful to his family, friends, community and God for the unwavering support that helped him reach this point.
Cameron head coach Adam Angel praised Hartley’s talent and work ethic, noting that the Royals have tracked the pitcher since his high school days and intensified their interest over the past six months.
Although Hartley had committed to playing at the University of South Carolina, he decided to forgo his college eligibility to pursue the professional opportunity, a choice that underscores the allure of the MLB draft for top prospects.
A New Chapter Begins
The draft also placed Hartley one spot behind Josiah Kemp, whose uncle, Matt Kemp, formerly starred for the Los Angeles Dodgers, adding a familial storyline to the rookie’s entry into professional baseball.