Ben Troike
11th round – 388th overall
Tampa Bay Rays
In the early rounds on Wednesday, Illini shortstop Ben Troike heard his name called during the MLB Draft. Troike was drafted by Tampa Bay in the 11th round and 388th overall.
The Tinley Park alum, Troike is a junior like his double play teammate Michael Massey who was drafted the day before. Rumor has it that Coach Hartleb thinks very highly of Ben’s defensive skills. As well he should. There’s a reason Illinois has led the Big Ten (and the nation) in many defensive categories and it most likely begins with the shortstop position.
Troike has offensive talents as well. He reached base 57 games in a row which spanned the 2017-2018 seasons. That led to his All-Big Ten Second Team honor in 2018.
Ben was injured in the wrist by a hit by pitch this season in May which ended his season. Regardless should he sign, the Rays would be getting a defensively superior product with offensive upside.
Troike has one year of eligibility left and the Rays would need to sign him by June 15th (Illini fans would be happy to have him back!)
Congrats, Ben!!