The Texas Rangers drafted Tom Mendonca in the second round of the Major League Baseball draft today. Mendonca was chosen 62nd overall.
Tom Mendonca went on to play baseball for the Fresno State Bulldogs after playing for the Turlock High School Bulldogs.
The Turlock High grad received major national recognition when he helped lead Fresno State to win the 2008 College World Series. The 6-1, 200 pound, left-handed third baseman was named Most Outstanding Player of the 2008 College World Series.
This year, Mendonca finished the season as Fresno State’s all-time career home run leader with 57. He had 27 home runs this year and was named 2009 Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year.
Tom Mendonca’s MLB Scouting Report summary states: Mendonca fits the profile as an athletic, left-handed power hitting third baseman. He takes advantage of a friendly home park, but the power should translate OK. Couple that with good defense at the hot corner and you’re looking at one of the more interesting college infield prospects in the class. Only his tendency to strike out will hurt his status some, but he still should go well.
Tom Mendonca was expected to be drafted around the fourth or fifth round by some, but Mendonca’s rating as a good third baseman and good hitter seemed to have pushed him up into the second round.
Congratulations Tom Mendonca!