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Georgia Baseball star Keegan McGovern Drafted by Seattle

By Alistair Penny

SEATTLE, WA - MAY 25: Jean Segura #2 of the Seattle Mariners reacts after being unable to get on base in the sixth inning against the Minnesota Twins during their game at Safeco Field on May 25, 2018 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WA - MAY 25: Jean Segura #2 of the Seattle Mariners reacts after being unable to get on base in the sixth inning against the Minnesota Twins during their game at Safeco Field on May 25, 2018 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Abbie Parr/Getty Images) /
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Georgia Baseball will bid farewell to one of the stars of their 2018 team in Keegan McGovern and the outfielder was drafted by the Seattle Mariners.

Coming back for his senior season sure worked out for Keegan McGovern. The Georgia Baseball player put together what was by far the best season of his career in 2018. His reward was to be drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 9th round of the MLB draft. That draft position not only means he’ll get a reasonable signing bonus, but it should also mean the team is relatively invested in his future.

McGovern was fantastic in his final year in Athens. He averaged .319 and hit 18 home runs, showing real power that could transfer to the next level. He has a strong arm and has a legitimate shot to make it to the majors in Seattle who are not exactly loaded with outfield talent right now. As a Senior, McGovern wasn’t drafted to be brought along slowly. If he adjusts to the minor leagues quickly, he could move up through Seattle’s system pretty fast.

McGovern was not the only Dawg drafted yesterday. Left Handed pitcher Kevin Smith was also taken in the 7th round by the Mets. Smith was UGA’s top pitcher during the season. He had an 8-1 record and an ERA of 3.49 in his junior season. Smith will have to decide if he want’s to go pro or stay for his final year.

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While some might suggest he take the money, I wouldn’t be shocked to see Smith stay. His career stats are ok, but not fantastic. If he were to have a very strong senior season and become a full-time starter, he could find himself drafted an awful lot earlier next season. His 6-5 233lb frame is exactly what scouts are looking for in a starting pitcher. He just needs to be more consistent and get that ERA down to under 3.

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