Dominic Battista, an Oswego East graduate, faced uncertainty earlier in the season due to a hamate injury. He wondered how this might impact his chances of being drafted in the MLB. However, as the season progressed, the Illinois-Chicago recruit found himself thrilled to be part of the MLB draft conversation.

It was in the back of my mind, Battista shared. But if you asked me a couple years ago if I would have my name called out of high school, I wouldn’t have even thought about it.

On Saturday, Battista’s situation transformed as the Kansas City Royals selected him in the fourth round, 119th overall. Although he has not signed yet, indications suggest he will soon.

More than likely I will sign, Battista confirmed. I know I could go to college and sign again, but I’m ready to go into the system.

Battista was among three players from the Aurora-Elgin area selected over the draft weekend. Joining him were Jayden Lobliner and Ryan Niedzwiedz. Lobliner, a St. Charles North alum, went to the St. Louis Cardinals in the ninth round. Niedzwiedz, a West Aurora product, was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the 15th round.

Battista’s presence in scouting circles grew over the past two years, with performances in showcases and travel tournaments increasing his prospect rankings. After returning from injury, Battista noticed more scouts attending his games.

That’s something that caught my attention for sure, Battista reflected. I tried to take it for what it was and just played baseball honestly.

The whirlwind journey nears completion as Battista transitions from hosting his graduation party to potentially becoming a professional athlete.

It’s definitely a unique opportunity, Battista remarked. I’m not going to take it for granted.

Lobliner had aspired to reach the majors since he was five years old. After two years each at Kansas State and San Diego, the catcher is one step closer.

It’s been a long time coming, Lobliner shared. It’s been a dream of mine, and it’s an important step toward the ultimate dreams I have.

The key factor for Lobliner’s opportunity was his passion for defense, earning him the West Coast Conference’s defensive player of the year.

That’s the thing I bring to the ballpark every single day, Lobliner expressed.

Lobliner flew Wednesday to St. Louis’ spring training facility in Jupiter, Florida, to begin his professional career.

It’s a fast process, Lobliner said. You’re ready to go play baseball. This is something I’ve talked about daily.

For Niedzwiedz, his preparation at SIU-Edwardsville paid off when his dream came true on Sunday. He gathered with friends and family as he awaited the draft outcome.

Now, I have this professional job. I can’t wait for my whole day to be baseball, Niedzwiedz stated.

Niedzwiedz reports Friday to Colorado’s spring training facility in Scottsdale, Arizona.

I’m just the one playing baseball. I appreciate them, Niedzwiedz shared. I can do whatever they need me to do.

Paul Johnson is a freelance reporter for The Beacon-News.