West Windsor, N.J. -- Mercer County Community College has announced that freshman shortstop and right-handed pitcher Heath Fillmyer has been drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the 28th round of the Major League Baseball Draft that took place June 6-8.

Fillmyer, of Florence, NJ, just completed a strong freshman season for the Vikings, who were ranked 12th in the nation during the season.  Fillmyer was named to the First Team All Region and was also a National Gold Glove nominee. He is a graduate of Florence Twp. Memorial High School.

Fillmyer is the second Vikings player selected in the Major League Baseball Draft in the past three seasons. In 2011, James Pugliese was selected by the Chicago Cubs in the 18th round.

According to Head Coach Kevin Kerins, both players embraced the benefits of playing baseball at the community college level. 

"Fillmyer and Pugliese maximized the experiences and resources available at Mercer,” Kerins said.  “Our players have a chance to make contributions and an immediate impact.  That’s a different experience than for most freshmen and sophomores at four-year schools, who have to gradually work their way into the lineup.”

In addition to the drafted players, Mercer has a rich tradition of placing players in Division I, II and III programs at four-year colleges.

Over the past three seasons, the baseball program has sent close to 30 players on to four-year schools, many of whom have received athletic scholarships.

Return to Baseball Page

Return to Athletics Home Page

Return to Sports News

Return to MCCC Home Page