Junior right hander R.J. Alvarez was taken 114th overall in the 2012 MLB Draft on Tuesday afternoon, and became the second highest picked player ever for FAU behind Jeff Fiorentino, who was chosen 79th overall by the Baltimore Orioles in 2004. Hovering consistently at 95 MPH, Alvarezs fastball caught the eye of scouts obviously, and earned the Royal Palm Beach native attention all season long. Producing an eye popping 0.72 ERA during 2012 as a closer, after moving out of a starting role in 2011, didn’t hurt either. Icing on the cake came in the form of a perfect 5-0 mark. The speedballer stands to make a solid earning, with the slot value of the number 114 pick being estimated at $416,300 per year initially. Given the rarity of the velocity he commands, FAU coaches have to be sorry to see him go, but praise is rightfully given where it is due. He worked hard in his three years and deserves being a third rounder, said Owls Head Coach John McCormack. The Owls could have a few more players selected during the remaining rounds of action.
