Hokie ClubLOS ANGELES – Talent built in Blacksburg, Virginia Tech baseball standouts Gavin Cross and Tanner Schobel were proudly chosen during Sunday's opening rounds of the 2022 MLB Draft, marking the first time two or more Hokies were selected together within the first 100 picks of the same draft year.
In a historic program moment, Cross was selected No. 9 overall by the Kansas City Royals, becoming Virginia Tech's highest all-time draft choice – surpassing the feat previously achieved by left-hand pitcher Joe Saunders in 2002 (No. 12 overall). The third-year sophomore outfielder becomes the fifth Tech player (sixth instance) to earn selection during the first round, joining the company of first baseman Franklin Stubbs (1982), right-hand pitcher Brad Duvall (1987, 1988), right-hand pitcher Denny Wagner (1997; compensatory) and Saunders.
At No. 68 overall, Tanner Schobel was chosen by the Minnesota Twins during Competitive Balance Round B – a supplemental round that rewards low-revenue and small-market MLB clubs with additional draft picks. Joining Cross among American League Central organizations, the Tech sophomore narrowly beat out Chad Pinder (No. 71 overall, 2013) for the title of the program's highest all-time pick among shortstops, now ranking as the Hokies' fourth highest position player to be taken all-time.
The 2022 MLB Draft continues on Monday, July 18, at 2 p.m. with coverage of rounds three through 10 (picks No. 81 through No. 316) airing on MLB Network. Third-year catcher Cade Hunter is projected as the Hokies' best available prospect heading into day two of three.