Three Spartans Have Names Called in MLB Draft

TAMPA, Fla. - University of Tampa baseball players Jose Jimenez, Paul Cruz and Kevin Ferguson were each selected in the 2008 Major League Baseball Draft. With the three selections, UT has now been represented in seven consecutive drafts, including 14 selections in the past three years.

Jimenez became the first Spartan drafted when he was selected by the Los Angeles Angels in the 33rd round (1009). The St. Louis Cardinals then chose Cruz in the 40th round (1205) while Ferguson went to the Angels in the 43rd round (1309).

Jimenez, who recently completed his junior season, ranks fourth on UT's all-time home run list with 41. A two-time team captain and three-year starter at first base, Jimenez also ranks third in Spartan history with 131 walks, ninth with 166 RBI's and third with 174 games started. A 2006 All-American, he is also a three-time all-Sunshine State Conference selection.

Cruz hit .362 as a senior while playing outfield for Tampa. He led the Spartans with 17 doubles and five triples while starting 49 games. As a senior, he had 23 multi-hit games.

Ferguson was a 2007 All-American who compiled an 18-5 record in two years at UT. The 2007 SSC and South Region Pitcher of the Year registered 85 strikeouts in 86.2 innings this season while starting 15 games.