Sacred Heart alum McIntyre drafted by Braves
Dalton McIntyre grew up playing baseball and grew up a fan of the Atlanta Braves.
On Wednesday, he admitted wearing a hat and pullover shirt with the Braves “A” logo on them felt a little different.
That’s because on Tuesday, McIntyre was selected by the Braves organization in the MLB Draft.
“It’s a different feel because I’ve had a couple of hats at home that I’ve worn for years, but going out today and getting this because I’m a part of the organization is a whole other feeling,” McIntyre said early in a celebration friends and family had for him at Hub City Brewing that also served as a birthday party too.
McIntyre played high school baseball at Sacred Heart of Jesus before going on to play JUCO ball at Meridian Community College in Mississippi.
He went from there to playing NCAA Division I ball at Southern Miss, where he had a team-leading batting average of .388 with 12 doubles, a triple and two home runs and 34 RBI.
“I’d been in communication with some scouts before, but I think more began paying attention to me after the way I hit this season,” said McIntyre, who plays mainly in centerfield.
McIntyre said the plan for his development within the Braves’ organization hasn’t been finalized yet, but he’s looking forward to whatever is asked of him.
“I know that wherever I’m sent, I need to work as hard as I ever have, because I’m sure they’ll push me harder than I’ve been pushed,” McIntyre said. “But I’m looking forward to the challenge because I love playing baseball and want to see what I can do in the pros.”
McIntyre said he’ll report to the Braves’ rookie training facilities in Florida later this month and begin that process.
“I’m very appreciative of this opportunity,” McIntyre said. “I had to wait longer in the Draft than I thought to hear my name called, and that’s OK because I just wanted to have a chance.
“And to be drafted by the Braves is great for me. But I’m grateful for this opportunity and looking forward to it.”
Brandon Shields, brandon@jacksonpost.news
