Kepley, a 2022 South Rowan High grad, was drafted in the second round, 56th overall Sunday night by the Chicago Cubs. He began his college career at Liberty, before transferring to the Tar Heels for his junior season. This spring, the UNC leadoff batter led the team in on-base percentage (.451), steals (45), and walks (71).

Kepley was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the second round of the draft at No. 56 overall, being the second Tar Heel to be drafted on Sunday night. He joins catcher Luke Stevenson who was taken by the Seattle Mariners.