Anthony Donofrio selected by Seattle Mariners

Even though the UNC baseball team only had him for one season, Anthony Donofrio put together quite the special year.

Donofrio, who transferred in from Quinnipiac for his final year of college eligibility, immediately made an impact in Chapel Hill with his speed (two stolen bases in opening series). As the Diamond Heels’ season progressed, Donofrio became one of North Carolina’s top hitter s, finishing third-best on the team with a .326 batting average.

Like his outfield counterparts in Vance Honeycutt and Casey Cook, Donofrio also had quite the glove. Even with all the tools Donofrio had in his bag, would he play himself into an MLB Draft selection?

Any team can use a speedy, contact-hitting outfielder with a solid glove, especially when that outfielder has a bit of pop (seven home runs, 53 RBIs).

Going back to that earlier question: yes, Donofrio played himself into an MLB Draft choice.

On Monday, July 15, the Seattle Mariners picked Donofrio in the 10th round of the MLB Draft.

Though he struggled in the College World Series, Donofrio mashed a combined, lights-out 9-for-17 in the Chapel Hill Regional and first game of the Chapel Hill Super Regional. His production will be missed, as UNC will need to replace its entire starting outfield.

I’m excited that Donofrio gets this opportunity to play at the next level. We wish him the best!

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