GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Davenport University and the baseball team extends their streak of having at least one player drafted during the MLB draft after Jonathan Cheshire was selected in the 36th round. Cheshire went to the Toronto Blue Jays as pick 1,089 and is the fifth Panther selected in the MLB draft over the years.
 
"It is an unforgettable experience and it is a dream come true." Stated Cheshire. "I couldn't have done it without the support from my coaches and fellow teammates."

Cheshire was arguably one of the best relief pitchers in the entire NAIA this season, posting a record of 9-3 and recording 11 saves. He had an era of 2.21, pitched 105.2 innings and struck out 113 batters. Opponents batted only .227 against Cheshire this season and he walked only 15 batters. Cheshire finishes his career with a record of 18-8, an era of 2.44, 35 saves and 224 strikeouts during 254.1 innings pitched.
 
The journey for Cheshire starts tomorrow as he travels down to Florida for a week to be evaluated further by the team. He will be given a physical and upon successful completion of that he will partake in drills. After the week is over the Blue Jays organization will place him in either Vancouver, with the Short Season Single A team affiliate, or in West Virginia, with the Rookie Ball team affiliate.
 
"Jonny has been a workhorse for us over the past four years." Expressed head coach Kevin Tidey. "He is one of the hardest working guys we have ever had and I can't wait to see what he can do at the next level!"
 
Story by: Devin Steiner

Photo credit: Tyler Triemstra