K-State's Neighbors, KU's Shojinaga react to MLB draft selections

ARLINGTON, Texas (KSNT) - Day two of the 2024 MLB Draft heard the names called of multiple Jayhawks and Wildcats.

K-State right-handed relief pitcher, Tyson Neighbors was drafted in the fourth round at No. 118 overall, by the San Diego Padres.

Neighbors was an integral part of K-State's performance in the NCAA regional, with a ten-out save to close the win against Arkansas. Neighbors spoke with 27 News shortly after the long-anticipated call that produced his pro opportunity.

"Still kind of soaking it in, it's an unbelievable moment especially when you work so hard growing up with friends and family," the former Wildcat said. "It's gonna take awhile to set in, but I know that you got keep putting in the work, and the dream starts now."

The dream is also just beginning for KU infielder Kodey Shojinaga, who was selected at No. 192 overall in the sixth round, by the Philadelphia Phillies.

Shojinaga was remarkable in each of his two seasons with the Jayhawks. After being named Big 12 Co-Freshman of the Year in 2023 and following it up by hitting .335 as a sophomore. His journey into the league made for an emotional moment after he got the call.

"It was was almost like a sigh of relief, but pure joy of everything I dreamed about as a little kid and what I've worked for my whole entire life-- for this one moment right here," Shojinaga said. "It's not the end, but it's the start to a new journey."

Getting drafted to the Phillies was extra special for Shojinaga, as the Hawaii native grew up a fan of fellow Hawaiian Shane Victorino.

"It's a dream come true-- just an honor, I always grew up watching Shane Victorino and I always wore the number eight." Shojinaga said. "I looked up to him, and I played for the Phillies, that was my little league team growing up, and just being able to put Phillies across my chest in the professional level means a lot to me."

Neighbors joins teammates Kaelen Culpepper, Jackson Wentworth and Brady Day who was also drafted, while Shojinaga follows fellow Jayhawk Hunter Cranton.