​Will Plunkett was overwhelmed with emotion as tears streamed down his face and embraces were shared among family and friends. The 18-year-old, who recently graduated as a standout at Mamaroneck, sat surrounded by loved ones after hearing his name called in the MLB Draft. “I was in shock,” Plunkett admitted. “Honestly, I’m still in shock.”
The Baltimore Orioles showed their faith in Plunkett by using their lone eighth-round pick on him, selecting him 230th overall on July 12. A photo from May 31, 2026, captures Plunkett in the Section 1 Class AAA championship against Ketcham at North Rockland High School in Thiells, where Mamaroneck prevailed 2-0. The image, taken by George Caratzas of The Journal News, marks a moment of triumph in a long journey.
Plunkett’s dream of hearing his name announced in the MLB Draft is shared by countless young baseball players, each hoping to see their hard work recognized. Yet few get to witness that dream become a reality. “It’s a dream come true,” he said, a sentiment that carried extra weight after a late surge in recent months helped him rise into professional consideration.
Following his fall 2024 commitment to Binghamton with a full scholarship, Plunkett’s name didn’t command headlines for a while, and the buzz around him softened. But this spring he unleashed a stellar performance: a .485 batting average, six home runs, 28 RBIs, 23 stolen bases, 36 runs scored, and a .611 on-base percentage. He also committed only one error at shortstop as his team claimed the Section 1 title by dethroning Ketcham. Such elite marks prompted even his head coach to question the sequence of players drafted before him.
“Baltimore is getting themselves a heck of a player,” said Mamaroneck head coach Mike Chiapparelli. “I watched some of the guys drafted before him and saw a lot more skill in the things he was doing. Based on the highlights they showed, it looked like he was a better player than a lot of those guys who went early.” Yet the evaluation of Plunkett extends beyond raw numbers and flashy footage.
The full story of Plunkett’s success includes his demeanor and mental fortitude, which Chiapparelli highlighted as key elements of his appeal to pro scouts. Plunkett’s poise under pressure stood out even as outside observers intensified their scrutiny. “He’s very clutch,” Chiapparelli noted. “To go out every game this year, take batting practice, and then perform in the game in front of scouts, under that pressure, was unbelievable.” The coach added that Plunkett’s composure under the bright lights was as notable as his statistical contributions.
When Plunkett finally called Chiapparelli with the news of his selection, the response reflected a calm in the moment that matched the player’s on-field demeanor. Describing the exchange, Chiapparelli characterized Plunkett as “very business-like.” The coach continued, describing how his player’s work ethic and character sealed the Orioles’ interest.
“I think aside from my skills on the field, the Orioles saw my work ethic and my character,” Plunkett remarked. “I know that is the most important thing. I’m big on the little things and big on intangibles, so I think that’s what stood out.” As he moves toward the next phase of his career, Plunkett’s blend of talent, tenacity, and steady approach to the game stands out as a compelling foundation for his future in professional baseball.