Orioles Draft Local Star Ryan Ripken

The Orioles took a shot in the 20th round of the Major League Baseball Draft Wednesday. They're looking to strike Iron.

The local club drafted Baltimore native Ryan Ripken, a senior at , and the son of National Baseball Hall of Famer .

“I am excited and honored to have been drafted by the Orioles.  As everyone knows, the Orioles are tied so closely to my family through my grandfather, uncle and my dad," Ryan Ripken said in an emailed statement. "They have been my team for as long as I can remember so that makes this moment that much more special.  Right now I am enjoying the moment with my mom, dad and sister as I prepare to graduate from Gilman this weekend.

Ripken, a 6-foot-6 first baseman, has committed to play at South Carolina.

Ripken was a two-sport star at Gilman, where he was a 1,000-point scorer in basketball and a .377 hitter who also pitched for the Greyhounds in his senior season.

His father was a second-round pick out of l in 1978. Cal was a two-way star in high school, too. Most teams wanted him as a pitcher.

Ryan Ripken was expected to be selected late in today's draft, but most anticipate the big lefty will attend South Carolina.

He was selected with pick No. 612.

For more on the draft, check out MLB.com's coverage.

Ripken wasn't the only local drafted.

alum Patrick Blair was chosen by the Astros in the 24th round.

Old Mill left-handed pitcher Josh Hader was chosen by the Orioles in the 19th round.

John Kuchno, of St. Paul's School, was an 18th-round pick by the Pirates.