Jacksonville State’s Coty Blanchard was drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays in the 15th round of the 2013 Major League Baseball Draft on Saturday (June 8th).

Blanchard becomes the 24th player in Gamecock baseball history to be taken in the Top 15 rounds and it marks the second straight year after Ben Waldrip was drafted in the 10th round last year. He is the 16th player that has been drafted under JSU head coach Jim Case.

“I’m excited for Coty and I know this is a big day for him,” said Case. “Of course, we would love to have him back, but we will be happy with whatever decision he makes.”

The former Cherokee County High School product earned second-team All-Ohio Valley Conference honors last month as a utility player after seeing action in five positions this seasons for the Gamecocks, and was listed as a second baseman on the MLB Draft Tracker. He was the 16th player selected by the American League team.

Blanchard was second on the team against OVC pitching, where he hit .363 with two homers and 14 doubles against conference opponents. He also drew 20 walks to post a .460 on-base percentage. On the season, Blanchard posted a .305 average with 19 doubles, four home runs and 37 RBI, while swiping 17 bases. He also tied for the team lead with four triples, as well.

Blachard, who helped the Gamecocks earn the No. 4 seed and advance to their 10th straight OVC Tournament appearance as a junior in 2013, was the sixth highest selection under Case.

(jsugamecocksports.com)