The 2025 MLB draft has delivered a rare spotlight for the University of Texas at San Antonio baseball program, as four of its recent standouts earned professional contracts.
A historic draft year
It marks the first time since 2018 that the Roadrunners have seen three or more players selected, and it comes just two years after the draft was trimmed to 20 rounds, underscoring the program’s resurgence.
Outfielder Lane Haworth, a junior transfer from Wichita State, was chosen by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 18th round, giving the team a versatile bat with a .315 average and a .430 on‑base percentage.
Right‑hander Connor Kelley, who closed his junior season with a 5‑2 record, a 2.98 ERA and 73 strikeouts in 66 ⅓ innings, was picked by the Toronto Blue Jays in the 14th round.
Reliever Robert Orloski, the bullpen workhorse who finished 8‑0 with a 3.36 ERA and 77 strikeouts in 72 ⅓ innings, earned a 16th‑round selection from the Los Angeles Angels.
Undrafted free agent Drew Detlefsen, the American Conference Player of the Year after hitting .386 with a .659 slugging percentage, 14 home runs and 22 doubles, signed with the San Diego Padres.
Looking ahead
The quartet of signings not only reflects the individual talent on display but also signals a broader upward trajectory for UTSA baseball, a program that has leveraged strong recruiting and player development to compete with larger schools.