Philadelphia, Pa. – Redbird outfielder Brayden Bakes was selected by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 13th round and 399th overall. He becomes the second Redbird selected in the 2026 MLB Draft.
Bakes becomes the 13th player chosen in the MLB draft under eighth-year head coach Steve Holm, including the 18th professional player developed during his tenure. He also becomes the first Redbird to be selected by Philadelphia.
In 2026, Bakes led the Redbirds in numerous offensive categories during his 57 games played, including batting average (.393), home runs (16), RBIs (52), hits (92), and OPS (1.191). He broke the single-season hit record in program history on May 16, surpassing Owen Miller and Joe Aeilts' tying record of 88. He sits tied for ninth in Illinois State history with his 16 home runs, matching Daniel Pacella's total from 2023. Bakes finished first in the MVC in batting average and tied for third in home runs.
The Algonquin, Illinois, native earned four MVC Player of the Week honors throughout the 2026 campaign, helping him earn All-MVC First Team honors. He was named to Baseball America's National Team of the Week in Week 6 and Week 11.
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