Belmont Abbey's Pagan taken in 10th round by Seattle

When the Mariners drafted Emilio Pagan in the 10th round, it made him the highest Draft pick in Belmont Abbey College baseball history. Pagan is the ninth Crusader ever selected in the First-Year Player Draft.

While Pagan excelled in college at third base and on the mound, the Mariners see him as a pitcher. He reportedly threw in the low 90s during a recent workout at Seattle's Safeco Field.

"Good arm, he's a conversion guy," said Mariners scouting director Tom McNamara. "He was playing a position, third base, pretty good college player and they used him as a closer. So he's got arm strength."

Pagan's collegiate career began at Gardner-Webb, but he transferred to Belmont Abbey College so that he could pitch and play in the field. He went 1-0 on the mound with 13 saves and a 0.00 ERA.

"Our area scout did a great job on him," McNamara said. "We were happy to get him in the 10th round."