Hofstra right-handed pitcher Bryan Verbitsky was selected in the third round of the 2013 MLB draft by the San Diego Padres.
“So grateful and blessed to be a part of the San Diego Padres organization!! Dream come True!”
Verbitsky had a solid junior season as he compiled a 3-4 record with a 2.66 ERA in 44 innings, accumulating 51 strikeouts and limiting the opponents to 27 hits and 10 walks.
He really put himself on the map last summer by making the All-Star team in the prestigious Cape Cod league.
Those who follow high school baseball are familiar with him dating back to 2007 when he helped Island Trees to the playoffs as a freshman. That year was the first time I watched him pitch, as I matched up against him in a summer league game which ended in a 1-1 tie through 7 innings.
Verbitsky has the distinction of winning the Diamond Award back-to-back seasons, awarded to the best player in Nassau County.
If he is able to sign a contract, Verbitsky will most likely head to their rookie league affiliate in Arizona.
Ironically, Travis Jankowski of Stony Brook became the first player from a NY college selected last season with a third-round pick as well.
