Marlins drafted Ferrell

Twenty-five years ago this week, a Jay County High School graduate was selected in the Major League Baseball draft.

The June 6, 1996, edition of The Commercial Review featured coverage of Dan Ferrell being drafted in the 22nd round by the Florida Marlins. Ferrell, who pitched for Indiana University, announced that he would give up his final year of collegiate eligibility to sign a professional contract.

“I probably started thinking about (playing pro ball) when I was a sophomore in high school, when (former teammate) Shane (White) got drafted,” said Ferrell, a Portland resident. “And it’s always in the back of your mind, even when you’re playing little league.

“It’s going to be a great opportunity, and in baseball that’s all you can ask for — a shot at playing in the Minors and maybe a chance to play in the Big Leagues.”

Ferrell had racked up 25 victories while playing for the Jay County High School baseball team. He had a career ERA of 1.36 to go along with 299 strikeouts.

During the 1996 season, Ferrell was 9-6 for the Hoosiers

Quickly after being draft, Ferrell agreed to a Minor League deal that included a $20,000 signing bonus and paying for his final three semesters at IU. He was headed to the Marlins’ complex in Melbourne, Florida, a few days later for a five-day minicamp.

Ferrell played one season with the Marlins’ organization, going 2-5 for the Utica Blue Sox (Low A) with a 4.71 ERA. He had 61 strikeouts and 17 walks in 70 2/3 innings of work.