Connor Knox has enjoyed better days on the mound than the 2021 Class 6 state baseball final when he allowed both runs in Colgan’s 2-1 loss to Madison.

But unbeknownst to him, that lowlight started Knox on a path that led to his selection by the Chicago Cubs in the 2025 Major League Baseball Amateur Draft.

It all began when Billy Swoope, Chicago’s long-time area scout, attended the state championship and noticed how Knox handled himself after allowing the two-run homer to Madison standout James Triantos. Instead of sulking or acting out in frustration, Knox kept his composure and moved on to the next batter.

The Cubs went on to select Triantos in the second round of that year’s draft, but Swoope made a mental note to keep an eye on Knox when he eventually became draft eligible.

After Knox turned in a strong junior season at George Mason University followed by a strong performance in the MLB Draft League, the Cubs had seen enough. On July 14, during the second day of the two-day MLB Draft, Chicago tapped the right-hander in the 18th round.

Knox has one more season of college eligibility left but agreed to sign with the Cubs for $140,000. MLB teams can sign players to a maximum of $150,000 without it counting against their bonus pool. He headed out last weekend to the Cubs’ spring training facility in Arizona.

When Chicago selected Knox, his family started shopping online for Cubs’ apparel. Knox had nothing Cubs-related himself, but he made do, taking pictures with attire he still had from when he and his family once saw games at Chicago’s Class A affiliate in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

“Once I got that call, everyone was smiling,” Knox said. “Tears were flowing.”

Knox saw increased interest from MLB teams after his velocity on his fastball rose to 95 to 96 mph. He also displayed excellent command in throwing strikes.

Feeling the healthiest he had been in college, Knox recorded single season career highs this season in starts (6), ERA (3.29), innings pitched (27.1), strikeouts (28) and opponent batting average (.178).

GMU did well when Knox was on the mound, winning seven of eight games when he pitched this season. In four of those games, he did not yield a run.

With GMU head baseball coach Shawn Camp’s recommendation, Knox bolstered his draft stock after the college season ended by securing a roster spot with the Williamsport Crosscutters of the invite-only MLB Draft League.

Rainouts limited Knox to two starts for Williamsport. But he made the most of them, going 1-1 with a 2.00 ERA, 10 strikeouts and two walks in nine innings.

Swoope saw Knox pitch for Williamsport. The Cubs also worked Knox out June 2 at their minor-league stadium in Myrtle Beach, S.C. In addition, Knox worked out for the Houston Astros (June 5) and the New York Yankees (June 8).

On the second day of the draft, Knox received interest from the Kansas City Royals and the Miami Marlins as well. But the Cubs were the team that decided to select him.

Knox was good with that. He loves how things have come full circle since that state final. He gets the chance to play pro ball and will do so in the same organization as his former foe that day against Madison. 

“Playing pro ball was always my dream,” Knox said.