The young shortstop from Doral Academy high school, Adrian Santana, has taken the next step in his career with his selection in the Competitive Balance Round A of the 2023 MLB draft. The Tampa Bay Rays could not let a talent like this one pass them by and chose the talented infielder at 31st overall. Yohandy Morales, the son of ex-Serie Nacional star Andy Morales was selected by Washington in the second round.
Adrian is the son of Osmany Santana, a Central outfielder who saw action in the National Series with the Cienfuegos teams and who reached the Double-A level with the Cleveland Indians. At just 17 years old, Santana had already established himself as a future star. Santana stood out as one most talented players in all of Florida. However, his final season at Doral Academy he exceeded all expectations, making him a first-day pick in the draft.
The lithe 5-foot-11, 155-pound shortstop, who had previously signed with the University of Miami, now faces a major decision. His second-round draft pick secures him a signing bonus of more than $1.3 million, putting him at a crossroads between professional baseball and his college commitment.
With the 31st pick, @RaysBaseball selects Doral Academy (FL) shortstop Adrian Santana, No. 38 on the Top 250 Draft Prospects list.
Watch live: https://t.co/1s1j9XMnG5 pic.twitter.com/zUSsO4WmoA
— MLB Draft (@MLBDraft) July 10, 2023
During his final season at Doral Academy, Santana proved himself to be a complete player, earning him Miami-Dade County Player of the Year recognition for the second year in a row. With a .364 batting average, 33 RBIs, 18 stolen bases and a remarkable 11 home runs, leading the county in the latter, Santana made it clear that he can do it all on the field.
His selection in the draft also marks a milestone for Doral Academy, becoming the first alumnus from the school to be selected since fellow Cuban Lency Delgado in 2018. With his enviable speed, defensive skills and good contact, Santana is considered one of top athletes in this draft class. Although his power is expected to increase as he gains more physical strength, there is no doubt about his ability to perform as a high-level shortstop.
Now all eyes are on Santana as he begins his exciting journey to the big leagues. His future will depend on how his offensive skills develop, but his exceptional athleticism and defensive prowess make him a highly attractive prospect.