When the city’s top local prospects convened at American Legion Field in Brooklyn for the Scouts Showcase two Sundays ago, nobody helped himself more than Melvin Garcia, scouts in attendance said. The James Monroe center fielder showed off his big arm in infield-outfield drills, displayed power in batting practice and had three hits in the game, including a home run.
Yet, he was not taken until the 33rd round of the First-Year Player Draft, the third of three PSAL players selected, by the Toronto Blue Jays with the 996th selection. It would seem odd, except according to several sources, Garcia was asking for an excessive signing bonus.
“It wasn’t because of his talent by any means,” Blue Jays area scout Michael Pesce said. “He has potential. I like his arm, I like his defensive ability. I think he’s gonna do just fine at the next level.”
Monroe coach Mike Turo has suggested Garcia go to college instead of signing, unless Toronto offers him a well-above slot package. He has committed to Wharton County Junior College in Texas. Garcia led the Eagles to an undefeated season in Bronx A West, batting .456 with three home runs, 23 runs scored, and 13 RBIs, and the PSAL Class A quarterfinals.
“It’s smart, unless you get big money, to go to college,” Turo said. “I’m happy he got drafted, I’m not happy where he went. I’m told it’s a privilege to get drafted, but go to college and get yourself better.”
Former GW first baseman Rosa taken by Marlins in 29th round: Viosergy Rosa didn’t make the George Washington baseball team until his senior year. Tuesday afternoon, the Odessa College (Texas) standout was taken in the 29th round (887 overall).
“I’ve always had that ‘I’ll show you’ attitude ever since I started playing baseball,” The Bronx native said. “I always heard I was too skinny, not good enough. I want to prove people wrong. I’m on my way.”
The power-hitting first baseman isn’t sure yet what his plans are, however. He has been offered a full scholarship to play baseball at Northwestern University out of the Big 10, but pro ball intrigues him, too. Negotiations have yet to begin, but Rosa, 19, would like his two years of college to be included in the contract.
“If they offer what is fair, I’ll go,” said Rosa, who hit .376 with 17 home runs and 78 RBIs this season for Odessa. “How many people get this opportunity? It’s a dream. It’s a hard decision.”
Rodriguez goes undrafted: Francis Lewis right-hander Jeremy Rodriguez pitched in front of major league scouts much of the spring, but went undrafted. He plans to attend Odessa College (Texas), a top flight JUCO, although St. John’s University has recently come into the picture and Rodriguez should be able to qualify academically.
“I’m definitely surprised that Jeremy’s name wasn’t called,” Lewis coach Ian Millman said of the 6-foot-3 Rodriguez, who was clocked at 91 mph this spring and went 5-2 with 77 strikeouts in 36-2/3 innings pitched for the Patriots. “I believe that a few clubs were in play late, but the financial amount wasn’t even close. This is just a small bump in the road. Jeremy should play pro baseball at some point.”