Millersville, Pa. - Chris Murphy became the seventh Millersville University baseball player to be selected in the MLB First Year Player Draft on Wednesday, going to the Houston Astros in the 24th round.

Murphy, a three-time PSAC East Pitcher of the Year and two-time consensus Atlantic Region Pitcher of the Year, was the 709th player selected. Only three other Marauders--Tim Mayza (2013), Ryan Knox (2001) and Jim Todd (1969)--were drafted higher. He is the third pitcher drafted during the eight-season Jon Shehan Era.

"There's been a lot of anxiousness lifted," said Murphy in the moments after receiving a call from an Astros scout. "I'm letting it sink in and I feel good."

Murphy took the call while playing golf with his father, brother and cousin. Murphy stated that a couple of teams had shown interest leading up to the draft and knew he would wait until the third day.

"The Astros are a great organization," said Shehan. "They do things the right way. It is a perfect scenario for him. They know exactly what he is capable of and I believe they will put him in situations to succeed."

Murphy posted a 33-4 record in three seasons as a starting pitcher with the Marauders, setting school records for wins, innings pitched, complete games and strikeouts. He was a three-time All-America selection and a finalist for the Brett Tomko Award in 2015. His 12-0 record this season set a PSAC record for the most wins in a season without a loss. His career numbers include a 2.07 ERA and .218 batting average against. He was a member of three PSAC East championship teams, three NCAA Atlantic Region qualifying teams and the 2015 PSAC Championship team. 

"I am so proud of Chris," said Shehan. "It has been an absolute pleasure to watch him pitch the past couple years. Chris did things I might never see again—even if I coach another 40 years. He is special. He is the ultimate competitor. He is not only a great pitcher, but a great teammate. He made us all better. I am blessed to be able to have been able to be a part of his life and I am thankful he gave our program and staff an opportunity. I wish him a long and healthy professional career."

Murphy had not yet been told where his first professional destination would be. The Gulf Coast League Astros (Rookie) is located in Kissimmee, Fla.