From Summer Ball to The Show: ONSL-Tied Players Selected in 2025 MLB Draft

As the 2025 MLB Draft concluded, the Old North State League proudly celebrates several players with connections to ONSL teams, whether through team acquisitions or standout performances during summer play, who are now one step closer to living out their professional baseball dreams.

Tanner Thach – Colorado Rockies – Round 8, Pick 227

Power-hitting first baseman and outfielder Tanner Thach was selected by the Colorado Rockies in the 8th round of the 2025 MLB Draft. A former standout at UNC Wilmington, Thach etched his name in the record books with 54 career home runs, the most in school history. The 6’4”, 225-pound lefty slugger spent his 2022 summer with the Edenton Steamers, a franchise that joined the ONSL last season from the Tidewater League.

Thach brings serious offensive firepower to any lineup, boasting bat speed, raw strength, and the ability to barrel velocity consistently. MLB.com described him as having “enough bat speed to do damage against velocity and plenty of strength for power.” While Thach never played an official ONSL game due to the team transition, his selection adds credibility to the talent pipeline now flowing through Edenton’s updated league affiliation.

Brayden Corn – Seattle Mariners – Round 15, Pick 452

Brayden Corn, who suited up for the Hendersonville Honeycrisps, was taken by the Seattle Mariners in the 15th round. The Western Carolina University product had a breakout 2025 season, hitting .312 with 11 home runs, 49 RBIs, 19 stolen bases, and a .937 OPS, earning All-SoCon Tournament honors and catching scouts' attention with his explosive athleticism.

“He’s got real power… foundational power, speed and size, and we think he can run around center field,” the Mariners organization noted after his selection.

Corn’s rise through the ONSL and his one-year impact at WCU shows just how quickly summer ball players can build a resume worthy of a draft call. His selection marks a major milestone for the Honeycrisps organization.

Cannon Pickell – Miami Marlins – Round 20, Pick 588

Another former Edenton Steamer, right-handed pitcher Cannon Pickell, was drafted by the Miami Marlins in the 20th round. The Western Carolina team captain appeared in 12 games this spring (three starts), logging 33 strikeouts in just 16.2 innings, flashing swing-and-miss stuff and toughness on the mound.

Pickell's time with the Steamers pre-dated the team’s move to the ONSL, but his draft status is a proud extension of the organization's development pedigree. Known for his leadership and command, Pickell adds to the growing number of small-school arms turning heads at the next level.

Robbie Burnette – Signed with the New York Yankees

Robbie Burnette, who played for the Raleigh Red Oaks (formerly Oak City Gliders), has signed a professional contract with the New York Yankees. While undrafted, Burnette’s signing proves that talent in the ONSL doesn't go unnoticed by major league organizations.

Burnette is the definition of a grinder. showcasing work ethic, consistency, and versatility in his time with the Red Oaks. His journey is a testament to the opportunities that exist within summer leagues for players who stay committed and driven.

Andrews Opata – Signed with the Boston Red Sox

Another undrafted free agent who earned his shot is Andrews Opata, formerly of the Reidsville Luckies. Opata signed with the Boston Red Sox, becoming one of the latest ONSL-developed players to enter affiliated professional baseball.

Known for his energy and athleticism, Opata brought a spark to the Luckies roster. Now, he’ll get the chance to bring that same spark to a Red Sox farm system known for producing dynamic outfielders and utility threats.

Charlie Muñiz – Signed with the Lexington Legends (Atlantic League)

Catcher Charlie Muñiz is staying in the Bluegrass State after signing a professional contract with the Lexington Legends of the Atlantic League. Muñiz, a former ONSL backstop and collegiate standout at Kentucky State University, made history in 2024 when he set the school's single-season home run record, launching 18 home runs and cementing his reputation as one of the most dangerous bats in the region.

A vocal leader and strong defensive presence behind the plate, Muñiz now brings his power, presence, and game-calling ability to one of independent baseball’s premier leagues. His signing is yet another example of the diverse pathways to pro baseball ONSL players are forging—whether it’s through the MLB Draft, affiliated ball, or top-tier independent leagues like the Atlantic League.

The League’s Talent Pipeline Keeps Growing

While not all of the drafted or signed players spent time in the ONSL under its current banner, their connections through team acquisitions and shared summer rosters reflect the expanding reach and influence of the league. These success stories underline what the ONSL is all about—developing, showcasing, and supporting future stars.

As the pro journeys of Thach, Corn, Pickell, Burnette, Opata, and Muñiz begin, the ONSL community proudly cheers them on and looks forward to seeing the next wave of players chase the same dream.