Phillies take Troy star Pierce in 15th round

PHILADELPHIA -- Logan Pierce put up big numbers while playing at Troy University, and the Phillies scooped him up in the 15th round (451st overall) in the First-Year Player Draft on Saturday.

Pierce, a 6-foot third baseman, led a 42-win Troy squad with a .364 average, and he also drove in 63 runs in his senior season.

Playing at Troy was comfortable for Pierce. The 23-year-old was playing in his hometown, and the Trojans' manager was Bobby Pierce, Logan's father.

Pierce also had a strong 2012 campaign, as he hit .351, scored 51 times and was an All-Sun Belt First-Team selection. At one point during the 2011 season, Pierce was named the Louisville Slugger National Hitter of the Week.