Houston Astros
· 2026-07-13
The Houston Astros have selected Middle Tennessee State outfielder Owen Nowak in the 12th round of the 2026 MLB Draft. Nowak was chosen with the 361st overall pick on July 12.
Owen Nowak, a 6-foot-1, 200-pound Wisconsin native, played one season with the Blue Raiders after two seasons at McHenry County Community College. He had a big junior season for the Blue Raiders in 2026, batting .318 with nine doubles, eight homers, 37 RBIs, and eight stolen bases.
The Astros are currently 9th in the American League with a 47-51 record, having lost their last game 6-5 to the Texas Rangers on July 12. Nowak's selection could provide a boost to the team's outfield depth.
Nowak will likely report to the Astros' minor league affiliate, where he will begin his professional baseball career. The Astros will be hoping that Nowak can continue to develop his skills and eventually make an impact at the major league level.
The 2026 MLB Draft has been a busy one for the Astros, who are looking to rebuild their roster after a disappointing first half of the season. With Nowak on board, the team will be hoping to turn things around and make a push for the playoffs.
Cecil Joyce, who covers high school sports and MTSU athletics for The Daily News Journal, reported on Nowak's selection. Joyce noted that Nowak was a second-team All-Conference USA selection after earning all-region in his two years in junior college.