K-State catcher Bear Madliak is headed to the majors after being selected by the Oakland Athletics in the 2026 MLB Draft. KSNT 27 News reports that Madliak was taken in the 18th round as the No. 531 pick.
Madliak became a regular presence behind the plate during his senior season with the Wildcats, starting 46 games. At the plate, he hit .310, including nine home runs, and totaled 53 RBIs.
This selection adds to the momentum of Kansas college baseball, highlighting a local program’s ability to develop players for the next level.