Three members of Kentucky's 2026 class will play in the Perfect Game All-American Classic, plus a rankings update from Perfect Game and news of a new commitment.
Kansas State catcher Raphael Pelletier is transferring to Kentucky, a source told Bat Cats Central. Pelletier started 122 games and appeared in 141 during his Kansas State career.
Originally from Mascouche, Quebec, Canada, Pelletier is a career .237/.349/.415 hitter with a strong defensive profile. He was named an All-Big 12 Honorable Mention in 2023 after slashing .257/.336/.383 with five doubles, six home runs, and 28 RBI. Pelletier also threw out 16 base runners trying to steal, leading the Big 12 in that category. He was the starting catcher this year on a team that reached an NCAA Super Regional for just the second time in Kansas State’s history.
Pelletier hit a career-high nine homers and drove in 29 runs. His average dropped to .210, but he drew 40 walks, third highest on Kansas State’s roster. Pelletier was drafted in the 25th round by the Texas Rangers in the 2019 MLB Draft but redshirted his freshman season. He became a valuable member of Kansas State’s program over the next three years. Kansas State head coach Pete Hughes told K-State Sports that Pelletier was “one of all-time favorite players I’ve ever coached” because of his work ethic.
“He works so hard,” Hughes told the publication. "It's a lifetime of dedication to his craft, and he's built such a foundation through his work ethic. The lows aren't low, the highs aren't high, and there's no moment that's too big for him.”
Pelletier is the 11th player to commit to Kentucky from the transfer portal.
Derek Terry is the founder of Bat Cats Central, a leading source for University of Kentucky baseball coverage. Before leaving full-time sportswriting, Derek worked for The Cats' Pause (2017-22) and Cats Illustrated (2015-17).
