Sandy Hook’s Kyle Wilcox, who pitches for Bryant University’s baseball team, received an early birthday present. Wilcox, who turns 21 on June 14, was selected in the sixth round of the Major League Baseball Draft on June 9. Wilcox was picked by the Seattle Mariners 185th overall.

Wilcox, a right-handed starter, recently completed his junior year at Bryant. He posted a 7-3 record in 14 starts. In 80 2/3 innings pitched, he struck out 50 batters and had an earned run average of 3.24.

The former Newtown High School standout helped the Nighthawks win the 2012 South-West Conference championship – both with his arm and at the plate. Wilcox was also a basketball player at Newtown High, and served as captain of both sports teams.

Wilcox began his collegiate career as a relief pitcher and transitioned into a starting role during his sophomore campaign. He went 3-3 in 11 starts with an ERA of 3.02 last spring.

Pitching is in the Wilcox genes; his sister, Lauren Wilcox, is a strong thrower for the Newtown High softball team, and recently helped the Nighthawks capture the SWC championship.