This K-State alum’s MLB Futures Game debut is a sign of big things to come

Kansas State fans had another reason to cheer this weekend as former Wildcat Kaelen Culpepper took the field in the 2025 MLB Futures Game, showcasing his rapid rise through the Minnesota Twins’ farm system.

Culpepper, the Twins’ No. 4 prospect and 21st overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft, appeared for the American League team in Saturday’s showcase at Truist Park in Atlanta.

He entered the game in the fourth inning and lined out to left field in his only at-bat. The Twins’ lone representative, he played second base during the 4–2 loss to the National League.

Since beginning his professional career last summer, Culpepper has continued to climb quickly.

After opening the 2025 season with High-A Cedar Rapids, he earned a promotion to Double-A Wichita, where he’s slashing .333/.412/.433 with an .845 OPS. He went 2-for-4 in his Double-A debut and homered in both his third and fourth games at the level.

Culpepper closed out his K-State career in 2024 as one of the most decorated players in program history.

A three-time All-Big 12 selection, he hit .314 with 26 home runs, 32 doubles, and 122 RBIs. His 26 home runs rank 10th on K-State’s all-time list. That season, he helped lead the Wildcats to a 35–26 finish and an NCAA Tournament berth under head coach Pete Hughes.

Since Culpepper’s departure, the program has continued its upward trajectory. K-State went 32–26 in 2025, earning a second consecutive NCAA Tournament appearance. The Wildcats were eliminated in the Austin Regional, defeating Houston Christian between losses to UTSA and Texas.

This offseason, the team saw its first major roster shake-up, as slugger Seth Dardar — who led K-State in several offensive categories — entered the transfer portal and committed to LSU.

With his Futures Game appearance now in the books, Culpepper adds another highlight to a growing pro résumé — and gives Wildcat fans even more to root for at the next level.