Washington Nationals draft JSU infielder Melvin Rodriguez
Jackson State University infielder Melvin Rodriguez is headed to the major leagues. The Washington Nationals selected the Manati, Puerto Rico, native on the third day of the Major League draft in June. He was taken in the 18th round and was the 554th pick. He is the first Tiger to be drafted since Pernell Halliman was selected by the Kansas City Royals in the 40th round in 2008.
Rodriguez was named to the National Baseball Writers All America third team and the American Baseball Coaches Association All-Region second team. Other honors include: Louisville Slugger All-American; C Spire Ferriss Trophy finalist; SWAC Player of the Year; SWAC Co-Hitter of the Year; an All- SWAC first team selection; and SWAC All-Tournament team member. He also was on the Dick Howser Trophy Watch List.
Rodriguez recorded a .422 batting average and had 97 hits, 22 doubles, seven home runs, 61 runs and 65 RBIs. He also posted a .477 on base percentage and a .635 slugging percentage to go along with a .961 fielding percentage.