Gulf Coast pitcher Zimmerman will sign with Rockies

Published: Updated:
Gulf Coast HS LHP drafted by Rockies in 11th round.

NAPLES, Fla.- Gulf Coast High School left-handed pitcher Michael Zimmerman had to make the biggest decision of his life.

After he was drafted in the 11th-round of the MLB Draft by the Colorado Rockies, he could either play professional baseball, or honor his scholarship with the University of Florida.

“It really is a life-changing decision,” said Zimmerman. “It’s about what you, as an individual, think you’re ready for.”

Zimmerman decided that he’s ready to take on baseball as a full-time job.

“I feel like I’m ready to take on the minor-league system and work my way up the ladder,” said Zimmerman.

The 6-foot-3 lefty says he’ll fly to Colorado and sign with the Rockies in the next few days.

“My family is very supportive,” said Zimmerman. “They said, you know, whatever you’re ready for, and I think I’m ready for that next level.”

Familiarity also helped the Gulf Coast ace make his decision.

The Rockies’ area scout, John Cedarburg, was the first pro scout that Zimmerman had ever met. Cedarburg is heavily involved with travel baseball in Southwest Florida, and was actually the one who called Zimmerman when Colorado decided to draft him.

“Having a guy that I know very well letting me know I was going to [get drafted] was awesome,” said Zimmerman.

 

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