For Jake Winston, a cliché ending was all he could have hoped for.

The University of Southern Mississippi standout and former Trinity Episcopal star was drafted Saturday by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 17th round of the 2016 MLB Draft.

“Oh my gosh, I can’t even explain what I’m feeling right now,” Winston said. “It may sound cliché, but it really is a dream come true.”

Saturday’s selection adds to what has already been a banner year for the former Saints star, as Winston finished 2016 with a 4.68 ERA in 22 appearances, striking out 50 batters in 67.1 innings pitched, while limiting opponents to a .246 average.

“This is something I’ve been working toward my whole life,” Winston said. “Ever since I was a little kid I told myself to work as hard as I possibly can toward my goal, and if I don’t reach it, then I could look back and say I did everything I could. Hard work pays off.”

Winston thanked his family and friends that “have always given me a positive attitude and vibes,” in addition to the USM coaching staff that has “worked me hard even some days that I didn’t want to.”

“It’s been a long journey,” Winston said. “But it’s also been a quick journey that’s gone by really fast.”

Winston was the 509 selection of the MLB Draft.

Winston is the son of Tam and Beverly Winston.