Millersville, Pennsylvania - After turning in arguably the most productive four-year career in Millersville baseball history, senior shortstop Tyler Orris was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the 33rd round of Saturday's MLB First Year Player Draft.

It is no coincidence that the Marauders played in four consecutive NCAA Atlantic Regionals, won four consecutive PSAC East titles, a PSAC Championship and finished as the national runner-up during Orris' career. A consistent performer at the plate and with the glove, he started 224 games at shortstop, including 204 in a row at one point, and set six Millersville career records. Orris was the third Marauder chosen in the 2016 draft.

"It only takes one shot," said Marauder Head Coach Jon Shehan. "Someone needed to give him a chance. I was in tears when I heard his named called. That kid has worked so hard. If anyone ever deserved a shot it is him. A couple of teams showed interest in him during the year. (Rockies' scout) Eddie Santa saw him in Butler and in North Carolina. They liked his defense. He's just a good baseball player."

The selection was a surprise to Orris, who disconnected on the third day of the draft. Instead of listening to each named called, he spent the afternoon swimming at his friend's house.

"I wanted to stay away from the phone because I wasn't sure if I was going to go or not," said Orris. "My friend told me someone mentioned me in a tweet, and when I checked my phone I saw that I had a couple missed calls. I called the Rockies' scout back and he told me I was selected."

Orris was renowned for his leadership, work ethic and production while playing shortstop and hitting in the leadoff spot. In 2016, Orris hit .354 with a .459 on base percentage, drove in 43 runs, scored 64 and stole 32 bases. He finished his career with 101 steals, 198 runs and 275 hits--all Marauder records. Orris' defense was even more impressive. He totaled 665 assists, setting a PSAC record. His fielding percentage improved every season, finishing four seasons with a .965 mark. He committed just seven errors in 244 chances in 2016.

"The scouts that I talked to, I told them you just have to give me a shot," said Orris. "I was just waiting for someone to take a shot. Like the people at Millersville know, I'm going to work my tail off to be the best I can be and help whichever team I playe for."

Orris was an All-Atlantic Region Second Team selection by the ABCA, D2CCA and NCBWA in 2016. He was also a two-time All-PSAC East selection. With Orris on the team, the Marauders went 177-52 and played in seven different championship games.

"I can't be more thankful," said Orris. "Coach Shehan and all my coaches in the past have put my name out there and helped me as much as they can. My family has been so supportive for sticking behind me all this timeand making it a reality."