Tyrelle Chadwick throwing for the Illinois State Red Birds. The Kamloops product was selected by the Colorado Rockies on Monday in the 2025 MLB Draft/via Illinois State University
The first word that came to mind for 22 year-old Kamloops baseball product Tyrelle Chadwick after being drafted by the Colorado Rockies: “relieved.”
The right-handed pitcher was an 18th round selection by the Rockies as the pick came in around midday on Monday.
“The initial reaction was a bit of relief,” admitted Chadwick in conversation with Radio NL. “Just knowing it actually was done and I had achieved a lifelong dream.”
That dream includes being able to follow in his dad’s footsteps.
Ray Chadwick was a major league pitcher with the California Angels.
He has since become the longtime Head Coach of the Thompson Rivers University baseball program.
Tyrelle says they shared a moment immediately after his selection in the Major League Baseball Draft.
“I was watching the (MLB) stream downstairs, my dad was upstairs. Once the pick came in I heard him running down the stairs, he gave me a big hug. We were both really excited.”
Baseball card of Ray Chadwick as a member of the California Angels/via eBay
Immediate push toward professional ranks
Chadwick is in Kamloops as he takes a break from a busy Junior season at Illinois State University and a couple of appearances with Bend in the West Coast League.
He says his plan is to sign and forego his final season of college baseball.
“After talking with my family, my advisor and even the coach at Illinois State, we all agree the right path is to sign with the Rockies organization and begin my professional career,” revealed Chadwick.
The former Kamloops Northpaw has good velocity on his fastball which is normally in the 93-94mph range but can touch 97
If Chadwick signs with the Rockies, he’ll likely head to their training complex in Scottsdale, Arizona as a first step into the professional ranks.
Chadwick is the 1st Kamloops product to be drafted in the MLB since Colin Kleven in 2009 by the Philadelphia Phillies.
That same year, Chase native Rory Young was selected by the Houston Astros.
Kamloops product Riley Jepson was never drafted, but signed a free agent deal with the Chicago White Sox in 2022.
Jepson is now the Head Coach of the Kamloops North Paws.
