The MLB First-Year Player Draft is never without its shocks and last-minute shifts, and Monday’s first and compensation rounds did not disappoint.
UCLA had a surprise of its own when a Bruin had his name called on the first day of selection.
Junior outfielder Jeff Gelalich, rarely marked above the 80th pick in predraft boards, went at the very end of the compensation round to the Cincinnati Reds at No. 57.
Gelalich was named the MVP of this weekend’s regional in a performance that included a two home-run, four RBI showing in Sunday’s clinching game.
When asked post-game whether Gelalich had improved his draft stock because of that weekend, coach John Savage showed a positive outlook.
“I would think so. When you put two balls out of the ballpark … as fast as he did, it’s pretty impressive,” Savage said. “He’s had a terrific year. … He’s really been our leader in the middle of the lineup all season long.”
In addition to Gelalich, three UCLA recruits were selected early on. Pitchers Lucas Giolito and Max Fried went in the first round, at 16th and 7th respectively. Infielder Daniel Robertson was picked early in the compensation round, at No. 34 by the Oakland A’s.
Fried will choose between signing with the San Diego Padres and attending UCLA, while Giolito will choose whether or not to join the Washington Nationals.
Compiled by Emma Coghlan, Bruin Sports reporter.