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GATORS

LaPorta Drafted Higher Than Expected

By SCOTT CARTER

Published: Jun 7, 2007

On the same day Florida basketball coach Billy Donovan officially returned to college, another Gator reaped the benefits of his decision to stay in school a year ago.

Milwaukee made the surprise pick of the first round by selecting Florida senior Matt LaPorta with the seventh overall pick in Thursday's MLB amateur draft. LaPorta was taken in the 14th round in the 2006 draft by Boston following an injury-riddled junior season. Instead of signing with the Red Sox, LaPorta rejoined the Gators and was named the SEC Player of the Year, boosting his stock in the draft significantly.

"I don't have words to explain it – it's just an awesome feeling to hear your name getting called," LaPorta said on a conference call.

The Brewers' pick surprised draft analysts because 2002 first-round pick Prince Fielder is entrenched at first base for years to come, the same position LaPorta played in college. However, Milwaukee officials worked LaPorta out in left field last week and officially list him as an outfielder on organizational charts.

"We've done our homework," Milwaukee scouting director Jack Zduriencik said. "[LaPorta] has a history. He went through the SEC, which in our estimation is the best college league in the country, and had 15 strikeouts."

LaPorta, who hit .402 with 20 home runs and 52 RBIs this season, is optimistic about the position change. When he signed with Florida, LaPorta was a catcher/outfielder, so he does have experience playing the position.

"I'm just going to go out there, work hard, and try to get better," LaPorta said. "I'm going to let the way I play take care of itself."

Reporter Scott Carter can be reached at (850) 294-3088 or scarter@tampatrib.com.