In an instant, Adam Haseley’s life changed.

“Right before it happened, everyone pulled out their phones and I think a lot of people knew that it was about to happen,” Haseley said.

The moment arrived when Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred stepped to a podium in New York on Monday night and announced Haseley as the eighth pick in the MLB Draft.

The First Academy grad who just finished his junior season at Virginia was part of a big night for baseball in Central Florida.

For the first time ever, three local high school graduates were among the first 30 players selected in the draft.

Lake Brantley alum Logan Warmoth went 22nd overall to the Toronto Blue Jays while West Orange’s Chris Seise was drafted 29th by the Texas Rangers.  

“I think it shows how important baseball is in the area,” Spectrum Sports baseball analyst David Holbrook said. “I think we’re certainly in the top-10 in the country for Central Florida and specifically the Orlando area has to be in the top-10.”

First Academy coach Scott Grove, who coached Haseley in high school, agrees.

“I wouldn’t put our kids below anybody, it’s such a hot bed of talent,” Grove said.

In the last four years, the Central Florida area has produced seven first round picks, including three in the top-10.

Lake Mary’s Brendan Rodgers went third overall in 2015 while Olympia’s Nick Gordon was selected fifth in 2014.

Haseley is now anxious to drop the draft pick label and be a player again.

“I’m ready to go,” Haseley said. “I don’t want to be away from playing baseball too long and it’s already been a week since we finished our season at Virginia.”