MLB Draft a dream come true for Mercer's Lewis

ATLANTA - Standout Mercer University outfielder Kyle Lewis is heading Northwest. The former Shiloh High School star was picked in the first round, 11th overall by the Seattle Mariners in the 2016 MLB Draft.

"I always believed in myself," said an emotional Lewis, wearing the club's distinctively green hat.

While there was hope the hometown Atlanta Braves would pick Lewis 3rd overall, he says he's happy to go to a team that really wants him.

"It's part of life," said Lewis. "I'm supposed to be where I am, and I have full belief I'll go out there and succeed."

Lewis just completed his junior season at Mercer, so he could elect to go back to school and play his senior year, but he indicated to FOX 5 he's confident a contract will get done and he can join the Mariners organization as soon as possible.

FOX 5 was there Thursday evening as Lewis hosted friends and family for a watch party at the Glenn Hotel in downtown Atlanta. Click on the video to see more.