A Shelbyville native is taking the next step toward living out a childhood dream.

Ty Brachbill has been selected by the San Diego Padres in the 14th round of the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft, earning an opportunity to begin his professional baseball career. Brachbill was chosen with the 425th overall pick after pitching at High Point University, where he struck out 81 batters in just over 90 innings during the 2026 season.

While being drafted doesn't guarantee a spot in the major leagues, it represents one of the highest honors a baseball player can achieve. Each year, thousands of college and high school players hope to hear their name called during the MLB Draft, but only a select few earn that opportunity.

For the Shelbyville community, Brachbill's selection is a moment of hometown pride. Local athletes often dream of competing at the highest level, and his journey from central Illinois to professional baseball serves as an inspiration to young players throughout the region.

The San Diego Padres selected Brachbill on the second day of the draft as part of their 2026 draft class. He now begins the next chapter of his baseball career in the Padres' minor league system as he works toward the ultimate goal of reaching Major League Baseball.