Springfield High grad Ben Hartl says he's ready for next step with Texas Rangers

Another Springfield native heard his name called in this year’s MLB Draft.

Ben Hartl, a 2021 Springfield High graduate, was selected by the defending World Series champion Texas Rangers in the 14 ^th round on Tuesday.

He was primarily targeted as a catcher after concluding his junior year at University of Kansas. He finished with a .309 batting average, including 47 hits, 35 RBIs, 38 runs and 11 home runs.

The Rangers were the first team to reach out to Hartl as early as his senior year in high school while leading SHS to its first state title .

"It was a really cool opportunity and when the call came, it’s an indescribable moment," Hartl said.

Hartl was participating in the Cape Cod League prior to the draft and is now awaiting assignment with the Rangers.

"I’m ready to take on professional baseball, it’s the right step for my career," Hartl said.

On Monday, 2021 Sacred Heart-Griffin graduate Sam Antonacci was selected by the Chicago White Sox in the fifth round after a year at Coastal Carolina.

Antonacci and Hartl teamed up for two years at Heartland Community College where they won the NJCAA Division II national title in 2023 before transferring to their respective schools.

Hartl described Antonacci as one of his best friends and an inspiration.

"Springfield is a baseball town, as we know it," Hartl said on his way back to Springfield. "A lot of guys have been drafted, a lot of professional baseball players have come from the 217. I’m very happy to represent the 217 and the Springfield area. This is a baseball area for sure."

This article originally appeared on State Journal-Register: Springfield High grad Ben Hartl says he's ready for next step with Texas Rangers