One season after switching positions, Kansas State shortstop Kaelen Culpepper is headed to the pros.
Culpepper was one of three Big 12 Conference players selected in the first round of the 2024 MLB Draft on July 14, going at No. 21 overall to the Minnesota Twins.
Culpepper, 6-foot-1 and 190 pounds, moved from third base to shortstop in 2024 and is the first position player from Kansas State to be selected in the first round. Culpepper was a two-time All-Big 12 pick and batted .328 with 80 hits, 59 RBI, 11 home runs, 15 doubles and 17 stolen bases in 61 games in 2024.
From MLB.com: “A right-handed hitter, Culpepper has a disciplined approach that prioritizes making consistent contact and using the entire field. He has well-above-average bat speed and enough strength to produce average power, yet he has a flat swing and rarely drives the ball in the air."
Ok Kaelen!
— Minnesota Twins (@Twins) July 15, 2024
With the 21st pick in the 2024 #MLBDraft, we have selected Kaelen Culpepper. pic.twitter.com/JS62vY0qFX
