Brayden Corn Makes It to the Big Leagues!
Former Bantam Baseball player Brayden Corn has been drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 15th round of the 2025 MLB Draft, making USC Union history. Corn, who graduated from USC Union in 2024 with an Associates of Science and is currently playing at Western Carolina University, was the 452nd overall pick, according to The New York Times. Corn was recognized for his performance as an outfielder in the Southern Conference Tournament, where he was named to the All-Tournament Team after going 7-for-13 with three home runs. He also showcased his speed, stealing 19 bases with only 3 caught stealing.
Corn says that his time attending USC Union while living at home afforded him a level of independence that taught him how to effectively balance the game and his academic activities. "The whole coaching staff played a huge role in getting me where I am," he said.
Corn says his goals for the upcoming season are to get familiar with the Mariners coaches and staff. "I want to enjoy where I am and be present," he said. "Since I was four years old, I just wanted to play baseball. This is definitely a dream come true for me and my family."
"Brayden is a special type of player," said USC Union's Head Baseball Coach Micah Stancil. He is always the life of the dugout - having fun, laughing and smiling. But when he steps on the field he has that ability to flip the switch. He plays the game hard, he's a scrappy player with a lot of grit. He is the type of player every coach wants in the lineup."
"Brayden Corn has been an outstanding student and baseball player for us at USC Union from 2022 to 2024, " said Athletic Director Zach Simmons. "He impressed many with his exceptional athleticism and baseball IQ. In his final season, Brayden hit .379 with 9 home runs, 40 RBIs, and 27 stolen bases. He was a leader on and off the field and is truly one of the best players to come through our program. Brayden has set the standard for USC Union Baseball, becoming the first player in school history to be drafted into Major League Baseball. We are incredibly proud of him. Congratulations, Brayden — we can't wait to see all the big things you'll accomplish!"