JACKSON – Millsaps College outfielder Garner Wetzel was chosen in the 18th round of the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft by the San Diego Padres. Wetzel, a native of Gulfport, Miss., was the 543rd overall pick in the 2006 Draft.
Wetzel Drafted by Padres in 18th Round
In the 2005 MLB Draft Wetzel was selected in the 10th round by the Colorado Rockies. Wetzel's pro career was put on hiatus after discovering a torn ligament in his throwing elbow. Wetzel opted for corrective surgery and to play out his senior season for the Majors.
In hindsight this proved to be a wise decision. After starting off the season slowly and adjusting to a move from shortstop to right field, Wetzel found his groove at the plate. On his way to leading the Majors to the NCAA Central Regional championship game, Garner Wetzel also the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC) Offensive Player of the Year for the second year in a row.
Wetzel finished the season batting an even .400 with 14 homeruns and 91 RBI. Wetzel's 91 RBI leads the nation. Wetzel was also recently named selected to the American Baseball Coaches Association/Rawlings Division III All-American Team.
After discovering his draft position Wetzel was energized, saying, "I'm so excited. I'm ready to go play, and represent Millsaps and the Mississippi Gulf Coast."
