Brian Heere, KU right fielder.

View full size photo »

Brian Heere, Kansas starting right fielder, was drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 48th round of the MLB draft.  Heere is a red-shirt sophomore with two years of NCAA eligibility remaining.  He certainly would be welcomed back by the Hawks should he not sign a professional contract before the August deadline.  Brian is a product of Lawrence High school.

After playing very sporadically in 2008 Brian broke out in 2009.  In 209 at bats Heere hit .364/.459/.531 with 12 doubles, 4 triples and 5 home runs.  He drove in 40 runs and scored 55.  Brian showed remarkable patience at the plate in his first full year of NCAA action.  He walked 39 times while striking out only 29.  Brian stole seven bases in nine attempts.  Brian also distinguished himself in the outfield only making two errors all year while providing consistently steady, and at times outstanding defense.

Brian's production was recognised by his being named second team all Big-12.

Should Brian sign a professional contract Kansas would have to replace two outfielder slots.  Starting centerfielder Nick Faunce graduated in May.  Casey Larson, Jason Brunansky, Jimmy Waters, Zac Elgie and Jake Marasco all started games in the outfield last season and will return in 2010.

Like Aman, I do not expect Heere to take the dive into professional baseball yet, but he will have an offer on the table and anything can happen.  Hearing your name called on draft day is something to which every college baseball player looks forward.  Below are Aman Reaka's thoughts on Heere prior to the draft:

Brian Heere and Robby Pricewould shock me if selected this year but if either of them can work out a deal to go in the top 10 rounds then I could see a slight chance that one of them might sign. Both seem to be prototypical college ballplayers that would want to play as much college ball as possible and to continue their education. Robby has his Senior season and playing his last year for his father to look forward to and Heere I'm quite sure will strive to get his degree before testing any professional baseball opportunities.