A Milestone for the Redbirds
Michael Addari, a right‑handed pitcher from Illinois State, was chosen by the Houston Astros in the sixth round of the 2026 MLB Draft, becoming the first Redbird ever selected in that year’s draft.
Addari concluded his junior season with a 4‑4 record, a 2.27 earned run average and 73 strikeouts across 67.1 innings, earning All‑MVC First Team honors and being named MVC Pitcher of the Week after a seven‑strikeout performance against Belmont.
Coach Steve Holm emphasized the significance of the pick, noting that Addari joins a lineage of Illinois State talent drafted by Houston and that his selection ranks among the top achievements of the program under his leadership.
The Astros have a history of scouting Redbirds, and Addari’s addition marks the fifth player from Illinois State to be taken by the club, underscoring a growing partnership between the university and the franchise.
Just days before the draft, Addari helped Illinois State defeat Belmont 10‑4 with a dominant 5 1/3‑inning outing, showcasing the form that secured his draft placement.