Perfect Season Ends with MLB Draft Call

Selden Kolkebeck, a Harrington Park native, has achieved a storybook ending to his senior baseball season. Following an undefeated 12-0 record and leading Old Tappan to the NJSIAA Group 3 state championship, Kolkebeck was selected by the Texas Rangers in the 19th round of the 2026 MLB Draft, pick No. 567 overall. This marks a significant achievement for the pitcher, who is committed to Columbia University. Kolkebeck's dominant performance included 126 strikeouts in 78 innings, a 0.72 ERA, and five shutouts, propelling Old Tappan to its first state title since 2008. He possesses a 6-foot-4, 215-pound frame with a fastball reaching the mid-90s, showcasing poise and maturity. He joins other New Jersey high school players drafted, including Alex Weingartner and Brayden Fry. Kolkebeck is the fourth area high school player drafted in consecutive years, following Nicky Becker, Nazier Mule, and Caden Dana.