Three Roadrunners made history in the 2026 MLB Draft, with Connor Kelley, Robert Orloski, and Lane Haworth all being selected. This marks a significant achievement for UTSA, with the program now boasting six draft selections under head coach Pat Hallmark, a double from the previous three. The success of these players is a testament to the program's growth and the hard work of the players and coaching staff. However, this is just the beginning for these talented athletes, and the future looks bright for UTSA baseball.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the diverse range of skills and roles these players bring to the table. Connor Kelley, a junior, demonstrated versatility by excelling in both bullpen and starting roles, showcasing his adaptability and ability to contribute in multiple ways. This kind of flexibility is a valuable asset in the MLB, where players must be ready to step up in various situations. Kelley's performance earned him a spot on the All-American Conference Second Team, highlighting his impact on the team.
Robert Orloski, a right-handed pitcher, made a significant impact in his two full seasons with the Roadrunners. His impressive 8-0 record and 3.36 ERA in 2025, along with his selection to the First-Team All-American Conference, demonstrate his talent and consistency. Orloski's success is a testament to the program's ability to develop and nurture pitching talent, which is crucial in the MLB.
Lane Haworth, an outfielder, transferred to UTSA and made an immediate impact. His .315 batting average, 69 hits, and 47 RBIs, along with his remarkable on-base percentage and OPS, showcase his offensive prowess. Haworth's ability to contribute offensively and his versatility in the outfield make him a valuable asset for any team.
One thing that immediately stands out is the impact these players have had on the program's success. UTSA finished the campaign with a 38-20 overall record and secured their second straight American Conference Regular Season Championship. This achievement is a direct result of the hard work and dedication of these players and the coaching staff, who have elevated the program to new heights.
What many people don't realize is the significance of these selections in the context of the MLB. The Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Angels, and Philadelphia Phillies are all storied franchises with a rich history of success. The fact that these players were chosen by such prestigious teams is a testament to their talent and potential. It also highlights the importance of the MLB Draft as a platform for players to showcase their skills and secure their professional careers.
If you take a step back and think about it, the success of these players is not just a win for UTSA, but for the entire college baseball community. It demonstrates the value of developing talent at the college level and the potential for players to make a significant impact in the MLB. It also serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes, showing that hard work and dedication can lead to success at the highest level.
This raises a deeper question: How can we continue to build on this success and create more opportunities for players like these? The answer lies in continued investment in college baseball programs, both in terms of resources and support. By nurturing talent at the college level, we can ensure that more players have the chance to make it to the MLB and contribute to the sport's growth and development.
A detail that I find especially interesting is the impact these players have had on the program's culture and reputation. Their success has not only elevated the program's standing but has also inspired a new generation of athletes to strive for excellence. The Roadrunners have become a force to be reckoned with in college baseball, and their success is a testament to the power of teamwork, hard work, and dedication.
What this really suggests is that the future of UTSA baseball looks bright. With a strong foundation in place, the program is well-positioned to continue its success and produce more talented players who can make an impact in the MLB. The selections of Kelley, Orloski, and Haworth are just the beginning, and the program's growth and development will continue to be a source of inspiration for the entire college baseball community.
