UNC Baseball: Anthony Donofrio signs with the Seattle Mariners organization

The former Diamond Heel outfielder as defied the odds to earn a spot with a Major League Baseball organization.
Jun 7, 2024; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels Anthony Donofrio (4) watches a hit against the West Virginia Mountaineers in the second inning of the DI Baseball Super Regional at Boshamer Stadium.  Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Camarati-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 7, 2024; Chapel Hill, NC, USA; North Carolina Tar Heels Anthony Donofrio (4) watches a hit against the West Virginia Mountaineers in the second inning of the DI Baseball Super Regional at Boshamer Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Camarati-USA TODAY Sports / Jeffrey Camarati-USA TODAY Sports
facebooktwitterreddit

Another day, another former UNC baseball standout agreeing to terms on his first Major League contract.

As posted by the UNC baseball program's social media pages, Anthony Donofrio has agreed to terms on a deal with the Seattle Mariners organization. The terms of the deal have not been announced for the 10th round draft pick, but it's important to note that his draft slot value is projected at $181,100.

Donofrio began his college career at SUNY Cortland and proceeded to transfer to Stony Brook. After being told he wasn't good enough to walk-on, the Massapequa, New York native found a home at Quinnipiac, where his star began to grow.

With a season of collegiate eligibility remaining, Donofrio took his talents to Chapel Hill and became a major contributor for a Diamond Heels team that made it to the College World Series in Omaha.

The Diamond Heels' starting right fielder led the team and ACC with six triples. He posted the highest on-base percentage on the team and third-highest batting average, which is impressive given the amount of star power that the Tar Heels had in their everyday lineup. He finished second on the team in doubles (19) and stolen bases (19), and drew an impressive 45 walks in 61 games.

What a story Anthony Donofrio has put together, as he continues to beat the odds and prove everyone wrong. Now, Donofrio will look to continue adding to this incredible story as he hopes to eventually make his way to the big leagues.

It's amazing to think that at one point, Anthony Donofrio wasn't even considered good enough to be a walk-on player. Just a few years later, this same guy is making his way to the big leagues.

feed