A Proven Pipeline: Hitters Baseball and the MLB Draft
The 2025 MLB Draft class is the latest proof of Hitters Baseball’s consistent ability to develop next-level talent. Under the direction of RJ Fergus, the program has produced over 122 MLB Draft selections, earned more than 400 Division I scholarships, and seen 15+ players reach the Major Leagues. Since its founding in 1993, Hitters has created a high-performance environment built on discipline, structure, and elite competition, drawing top athletes from across Wisconsin, Illinois, and beyond. For families and players serious about long-term development, Hitters remains one of the most trusted and accomplished names in amateur baseball.
The 2025 MLB Draft was yet another historical year for Hitters Baseball. With seven alumni selected, including two in the first round, the Caledonia-based program continues to prove why it’s regarded as one of the top development academies in the Midwest—and increasingly, in the country.
From the very first round to the final day of the draft, Hitters athletes were called by some of the most respected organizations in Major League Baseball. Their selections reflect years of training, competition, and dedication—starting with their time at Hitters.
First-Round Success: Two Hitters in the Top 40
The headline of this year’s draft class is undoubtedly the selection of two longtime Hitters athletes in the first round.
Gavin Kilen — 13th overall, San Francisco Giants
Kilen, a shortstop from Milton, Wisconsin, finished his college career at the University of Tennessee after transferring from Louisville. In 2025, he batted .357 with 15 home runs and a 1.112 OPS, helping Tennessee reach the College World Series. His consistent bat, infield versatility, and high-level performance made him a top-15 selection by the San Francisco Giants.
Kilen spent his developmental years competing with Hitters, where his high-contact approach and defensive skill set first gained national attention.
Mitch Voit — 38th overall, New York Mets
Voit, a product of Whitefish Bay High School, starred at the University of Michigan. Originally a two-way player, he shifted his focus exclusively to hitting in 2025 and delivered a standout season: .346 average, 14 home runs, 60 RBI, and a 1.140 OPS. His athleticism and production made him a first-round target for the Mets.
Five More Players Drafted
Beyond the top 40 picks, five more Hitters alumni were selected—bringing the program’s total to seven draftees, each representing a different MLB organization.
Brady Counsell — 10th Round, 303rd overall, Arizona Diamondbacks
Counsell played his final college season at the University of Kansas, where he earned a Rawlings Gold Glove award at third base and hit 12 home runs. The Whitefish Bay native previously played for the University of Minnesota. His baseball lineage is notable, but his development and consistency through the Hitters program made him a draft-worthy prospect on his own merit.
Will Vierling — 11th Round, 341st overall, Philadelphia Phillies
Vierling, a left-handed hitting catcher, played for Murray State after transferring from Louisville. In 2025, he batted .312 with 10 home runs, handling a deep pitching staff and contributing to a strong postseason run. The Mequon native competed with Hitters’ 2022 Navy team and trained in the program’s catching pipeline.
Seth Clausen — 16th Round, 467th overall, Colorado Rockies
Clausen served as a key bullpen arm for the University of Minnesota, recording 46 strikeouts in just 32.2 innings in 2025. The right-hander showed consistent velocity and command, attracting the Rockies’ attention.
Luke Nowak — 17th Round, 518th overall, Kansas City Royals
Nowak turned in a breakout season at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC), where he led the Missouri Valley Conference in batting average at .387, with a 1.014 OPS. The Menomonee Falls native was a reliable top-of-the-order presence and a strong defender in the outfield.
Ethan Moore — 18th Round, 534th overall, Cincinnati Reds (did not sign)
Ethan Moore, a shortstop from Oak Park & River Forest High School (IL), was selected by the Cincinnati Reds with the 534th overall pick in the 18th round of the 2025 MLB Draft. Despite being ranked No. 100 overall by MLB Pipeline, Moore fell in the draft due to strong expectations he would honor his college commitment. Within hours of being drafted, he confirmed he would not sign and will instead attend the University of Tennessee, where he signed a National Letter of Intent last November.
A Testament to Long-Term Development
The seven-player draft class from Hitters Baseball reflects more than individual achievement—it’s a testament to the system that supports these athletes from early travel teams through college and beyond.
Founded in 1993, Hitters Baseball now boasts over 400 college alumni and more than 70 professional players. With year-round training, a premier indoor facility in Caledonia, and a high-exposure travel schedule, the program continues to shape talent into opportunity.
Train Like a Pro: Join Hitters Baseball
Whether your athlete is just starting travel ball or aiming for a collegiate scholarship, Hitters provides the resources and training needed to reach the next level.
Tryouts Open Now
Tryouts for the 2025–2026 Hitters teams are now posted. Visit hittersbaseballacademy.org/tryouts to register and view schedules.
Winter Training Starts in October
Our comprehensive off-season program includes hitting, pitching, defense, and catching instruction. Programs are available for baseball and softball athletes.
Cage Rentals Available Year-Round
Book time online or call 262.835.1800 to train at the Midwest’s premier indoor facility.
The Pipeline Is Stronger Than Ever
As seven more alumni begin their journey through professional baseball, Hitters Baseball remains focused on what it does best: preparing the next generation of college and professional players.
Experience commitment. Experience passion. Experience opportunity.
For all press inquiries, contact info@hittersbaseballacademy.com
