Vicksburg’s Ryan Nelson drafted by Reds one day after 20th birthday

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) —

 A Sunday night phone call changed everything for Ryan Nelson.

Just one day after celebrating his 20th birthday, the Vicksburg native heard his name called in the 19th round of the Major League Baseball Draft by the Cincinnati Reds, turning years of hard work into the opportunity of a lifetime.

“I’m feeling ecstatic and a lot of people poured into this moment that I had today and I’m really blessed and woke up grateful knowing that I got this opportunity,” Nelson said. “I’m keeping God first and I have to thank my dad for influencing me from day 1 in the classroom and on the field.”

Although Nelson built his reputation as one of the top hitters in junior college baseball, the Reds selected him as a pitcher, recognizing the powerful arm he has showcased in competition and in widely shared social media videos.

Nelson starred at East Central Community College this past season, batting .410 with 11 home runs, 51 RBIs and 15 stolen bases. He also tied for fifth in the Mississippi Association of Community Colleges Conference with 68 runs scored while helping lead the Warriors to the NJCAA Division II World Series.

Before the start of his sophomore season at East Central, Nelson committed to the University of Oklahoma. But after receiving the call from Cincinnati on Sunday night, his path changed.

“I’m going to Cincinnati and I’m ready to make a dream come true,” Nelson said.

Nelson’s rise to professional baseball began long before his standout season at East Central. A 2024 Warren Central High School graduate, he helped lead the Vikings to a MHSAA Class 6A state championship appearance, performances that earned him the opportunity to continue his career at East Central.

Family, friends and supporters gathered Sunday evening at The View to celebrate Nelson’s selection, marking a milestone not only for the young athlete but also for a community that watched him grow from a local standout into a professional baseball player.