Liam O’Leary Honors Parents’ Legacy After MLB Draft Selection Following Years of Loss
PITTSBURGH, Pa. / SOUDERTON, Pa. — For rising baseball star Liam O’Leary, reaching the Major League Baseball Draft was more than the fulfillment of a childhood dream. It was a tribute to the parents who shaped him, supported him, and inspired him long after they were gone.
The former Souderton Area High School standout, Montgomery County Community College athlete, and St. John’s University ace pitcher was recently selected by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 15th round of the 2026 MLB Draft — a moment his family had dreamed of seeing.
But behind Liam’s remarkable journey to professional baseball is a story of perseverance, heartbreak, and an unbreakable family bond.
Remembering Kevin O’Leary
Liam’s baseball foundation was built by his parents, Kevin and Jenny O’Leary, who encouraged his passion for the game and supported his goals from the earliest days of his career.
Tragedy struck during Liam’s senior year at Souderton Area High School when his father, Kevin O’Leary, died unexpectedly in 2022.
The loss came at a pivotal moment in Liam’s life, as he was preparing for the next chapter of his baseball career. Despite the heartbreak, Liam continued forward, carrying his father’s lessons, encouragement, and belief in him.
Kevin’s influence remained a constant source of motivation as Liam continued developing into one of the region’s top pitchers.
Jenny O’Leary Becomes the Family’s Strength
After Kevin’s passing, Liam’s mother, Jenny O’Leary, became the family’s foundation, helping Liam and his three siblings navigate unimaginable grief while continuing to support their dreams. 
Jenny provided stability, encouragement, and love as the family adjusted to life without Kevin.
Then, in 2024, the O’Leary family experienced another devastating loss when Jenny passed away, leaving Liam at just 19 years old along with his siblings to continue carrying forward their parents’ legacy.
Through heartbreak, the O’Leary children leaned on each other and remained united by the love their parents gave them.
A Family Bond Built Through Strength
Liam and his siblings have continued to honor their parents by supporting one another through every challenge.
His older sister, Shanleigh O’Leary, stepped into an important role within the family, encouraging Liam to continue pursuing his baseball dreams after their father’s passing and helping preserve the traditions their parents created.
Liam, now 21, became a symbol of determination and resilience. He transformed his grief into motivation, continuing his baseball career through Montgomery County Community College, Lackawanna College, and St. John’s University.
At Lackawanna College, Liam recorded an impressive 121 strikeouts in a single season, showcasing the talent that would eventually lead him to one of college baseball’s biggest stages.
At St. John’s University, he became a key contributor on the mound and helped lead the program to an NCAA Super Regional appearance.
His younger brothers, Finn O’Leary, 15, and Nolan O’Leary, 11, continue to look up to him as both a brother and role model. Both are involved in youth baseball and share a special connection with Liam through the sport that has brought their family so many memories.
A Dream Achieved, A Legacy Continued
When Liam heard his name called by the Pittsburgh Pirates during the 2026 MLB Draft, it represented more than a professional opportunity.
It represented years of hard work, sacrifice, and the love of two parents who believed in him.
Although Kevin and Jenny were not there physically to witness Liam’s selection, their presence remains deeply woven into his journey.
Every pitch Liam throws carries the lessons they gave him — perseverance, humility, dedication, and the importance of family.
From neighborhood fields to college stadiums and now the professional ranks, Liam O’Leary’s story is one of resilience and remembrance.
His success is not only his own achievement but a continuation of the legacy his parents built through love, support, and unwavering belief in their son.