As the deadline for Major League teams to sign their 2009 draft picks, the San Diego Padres have come to terms with their first round pick (Number Three overall) Donavan Tate. Tate had committed to play both football and baseball at the University of North Carolina. During his senior year at Cartersville High School in Georgia, Tate hit .525 with 10 homeruns, a 1.000 slugging percentage, a .788 on-base percentage, 29 walks and only eight strikeouts. During his high school career he slugged 32 homeruns and was named an Aflac All-American in 2008.
“We have identified a need for athleticism, particularly in the outfield, when playing at PETCO Park,” said executive vice president/general manager Kevin Towers. “In signing Donavan Tate, we have acquired an excellent ballplayer and one of the premier athletes available in this year’s draft.”
