(Gilbert, AZ) Park University-Gilbert right-handed pitcher KJ Ward became the first Buccaneer baseball player drafted in Major League Baseball’s First Year Entry Draft as he was selected in the ninth round today by the Detroit Tigers.
The 6-5. 255 lbs. senior was taken with 276 pick of the draft. The pick has a draft slot signing bonus of $204,400.
Ward, who’s fastball sits in the high 90’s and has even touched 100 mph this season, finished this season with 52 strikeouts in 40.1 innings. For his career, Ward finished with 67 strikeouts in 50.1 innings.
The Houston, Texas native transferred to Park Gilbert in 2024 and had his initial season cut short as he had Tommy John surgery on his pitching arm which cut short his initial campaign and carried over into 2025. Ward could have pitched late in the 2025 season but it was decided to let him continue to build his strength for the 2026 season.
In 2026, Ward averaged 11.7 strikeouts per nine innings and 3.5/1 strikeouts to walk ratio. Batters hit only .247 against him and a .248 batting average on balls in play (BABIP).
“It’s an exciting dat for Park-Gilbert baseball and KJ,” said Buccaneer head coach Kelly Stinnett. “The first draft pick in school history is an incredible accomplishment. Through the ups and downs these past few years he’s kept his nose to the grindstone and kept working hard. Today is a great day for him to enjoy the benefits of all of his hard work.
Press Release courtesy of Park University Athletics – Preston English
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