UNC Baseball: Dalton Pence signs with the Texas Rangers organization

Dalton Pence has made a decision on his future, as the former UNC baseball standout has elected to begin his professional career.

After being selected by the Texas Rangers in the 11th round of the 2024 MLB Draft, Pence has agreed to a contract with the organization. According to Jim Callis of MLB Pipeline, the former Diamond Heel will earn $350K.

Pence became a workhorse for the UNC baseball program out of the bullpen, as he was one of the country's top relievers during the 2024 season. Whenever Scott Forbes and the Diamond Heels needed a big out (or outs), Pence was likely the man standing on the mound.

During his redshirt sophomore season, Pence posted a 5-1 record with eight saves and a 2.45 ERA. He made life difficult for opposing hitters, averaging 11.35 strikeouts per nine innings. For his efforts, Pence earned Second Team All-American honors from Baseball America, College Baseball Foundation, D1 Baseball, and Perfect Game.

When the stakes got higher, Pence was even better. The left-hander was a crucial factor in the Diamond Heels' run to the College World Series, as he earned the win in the regional championship game against LSU and the save in game two of the Super Regional versus West Virginia. His best outing came against ACC rival Virginia in the College World Series, as he threw 3.1 scoreless innings in relief.

Pence might ultimately challenge for a spot as a starting pitcher in the pros, but his ability to be an elite multi-inning reliever could help him rise through the organization rather quickly. Finding effective left-handed pitchers is something organizations dream of finding, as the Rangers hope that Pence can be one of those guys for their big league club in the near future.