Borchering, Pollock selected by D-Backs
Borchering and Pollock were the first two of eight picks made by the D-Backs on day one of the three-day 2009 MLB First-Year Player Draft. Rounds four through 30 will take place on Wednesday, with the final 20 rounds taking place on Thursday.
The 6-foot-4 200-pound switch-hitting Borchering is from Bishop Verot High School in Avla, Fla., where he hit .494 with 13 homeruns and drove in 37 runs in just 30 games during his senior season for the Vikings.
Scouts say Borchering's strong and athletic body compares to a modern day Chipper Jones and his pop from both sides of the plate will carry him through the organization.
Pollock, a converted shortstop was selected as a junior out of Notre Dame. In 59 games, Pollock hit .365 with 10 homers and 52 RBIs. Pollock also stole 21 bases in 25 attempts.
Scouts say Pollock was one of the better college hitters available in the draft. He has a great approach at the plate with above average speed and is very quiet and soft with his stride. The gap-to-gap, line drive hitter is reminiscent of a less physical Darrin Erstad. Pollock, who bats right and throws right, equals the highest selection ever of a Notre Dame player.
Borchering signed a letter of intent to play at the University of Florida, if he were not to sign with the Diamondbacks. Pollock was not previously drafted.
The Diamondbacks followed their first round with three more picks in the supplemental first round - third baseman Matthew Davidson from Yuciapa High School in California, shortstop Christopher Owings of Gilbert High School in North Carolina and left-handed pitcher Michael Belifore of Boston College.
In the second round, the D-Backs went to college players with their two picks, selecting right-handed pitcher Eric Smith from the University of Rhode Island, and outfielder Marc Krauss of the University of Ohio.
Arizona wrapped up their first day selections with their third-round choice, third-baseman Keon Broxton of Santa Fe Community College.
The 2009 home opener for the Missoula Osprey is June 26 against the Helena Brewers. Tickets are available by visiting the Missoula Osprey Team Store located at 412 W. Alder St., by calling (406) 543-3300, or by visiting the team's website at www.missoulaosprey.com.