From Hokie to Mariners: Griffin Stieg's MLB Dream Came True

The Virginia Tech Hokies baseball program is proud to send another star to the professional leagues. The team's successful pitcher, Griffin Stieg, took his first step into professionalism by being selected by the Seattle Mariners in the 18th round, 542nd overall, of the 2023 Major League Baseball (MLB) Draft. This selection marks a new chapter in the young athlete's career while also turning his long-held dreams into reality. Throughout his college career with the Virginia Tech jersey, Stieg showed steady improvement, particularly attracting attention with his performance in the last season. Known for his poise on the field, accurate throws, and ability to lead his team, the right-handed pitcher became one of the most trusted names in the Hokies. The experience he gained in the challenging atmosphere of the college league was a major factor in being noticed by MLB teams. Griffin Stieg's impressive performance, especially in the 2023 season, played a significant role in many critical games for his team. His low error rate (ERA) and high strikeout numbers clearly displayed his potential. His outstanding success in key battles in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) led to his name being written at the top of MLB scouts' reports, cementing his place in the draft. Finding a place in the 18th round of the MLB draft is the start of a long and challenging journey for an athlete. Stieg will strive to prove himself within the Seattle Mariners organization and climb the ranks one by one. The Mariners are known for their success in developing talents discovered in the later rounds of the draft, which can be seen as a promising sign for Stieg's future. The young talent is expected to start his professional career with one of the Mariners' minor league teams. Here, he will need to adapt to the tempo and challenges of professional baseball, develop his pitching repertoire, and increase his endurance. Both Mariners and Virginia Tech fans will closely follow Stieg's progress on this new adventure. Griffin Stieg's selection also once again demonstrates the success of the Virginia Tech baseball program in player development. The program has consistently showcased its quality and vision by regularly sending players to the professional leagues in recent years. Stieg has become the latest name to join the caravan of Hokies alumni preparing to make their mark in the MLB.