Texas A&M’s Chris Cortez Gets Picked in Second Round of 2024 MLB Draft
FORT WORTH, TX – Rising star right-hander Chris Cortez from Texas A&M has been drafted by the Los Angeles Angels, taken as the 45th pick in the second round of the 2024 Major League Baseball (MLB) Draft.
The distinguished player is the sixth member from the Maroon & White to be drafted by the Angels, and the first since Andrew Vinson in 2016. This sets a new record, with the Aggies now having at least two players selected in every draft since 1984, making it the longest nationwide streak.
An Impressive Season
Demonstrating an All-America worthy performance in 2024, Cortez, during his junior year, recorded an impressive 10-3 win-loss ratio and a 2.78 ERA across 25 appearances. He managed to strike out an extraordinary 102 batters over 64.2 innings, holding opposing teams to a batting average of just .187.
Proving his versatility, Cortez pushed through 19 multiple-inning performances out of his total 25 appearances, 12 of which were scoreless. In the postseason, his statistics remained just as strong, with 2 wins, a 1.15 ERA and 29 strikeouts in 15.2 innings of work. Opposing batters were left struggling, managing a measly .148 batting average against him.
Cortez’s Outstanding A&M Record
Throughout his three-year career with Texas A&M, Cortez has made a total of 69 appearances and secured a 4.67 ERA. The right-handed pitcher has accumulated 173 strikeouts in 150.1 innings, ensuring a .237 batting average. His consistent performance and impressive statistics have surely played a significant role in his second-round draft by the Los Angeles Angels
Off-field Situation in College Station and Bryan
Authorities from the College Station and Bryan Police have been dealing with drivers demonstrating “hooligan” behavior. Police had to deal with racing and burnouts going beyond the boundaries of Veterans Park and spilling into the parking lot of a target store in Bryan. A gunshot was reported to be heard in the area, but authorities reported no casualties or damages.
New Texas American Legion State Commander
In a separate occurrence, Tom Marty, a member of the Bryan American Legion post, has been elected as the new state commander. In his time with the Legion, Marty served various roles, including the state’s vice-commander and commander of Bryan’s post 159. Marty’s new role will be in service to the Texas American Legion’s statewide membership recruitment and public relations efforts.
Leadership Changes at Texas A&M
Texas A&M’s president has announced the beginning of two new leadership searches as two others reach their conclusion. The dean at A&M’s veterinary school, John August, is set to retire in 2025, sparking a nationwide search for his successor. A second search for the dean of A&M’s school of architecture has also been initiated.