June 8, 2007

BREAKING NEWS: Miller Time!

From community college to the major leagues

Justin Miller's favorite team used to be the Boston Red Sox but after today its probably the Los Angeles Dodgers.

By Miguel M. Morales

Today the Los Angeles Dodgers drafted Justin Miller, a freshman pitcher/outfielder from Johnson County Community College (JCCC) in Overland Park, Kan.


Miller became the Dodger's first selection on the second day of the MLB Draft. The Dodgers selected Miller in the sixth round. Miller was the 206th overall selection.

According to JCCC, Miller is the 38th Cavalier to sign as a free agent or be drafted into the MLB. Before Miller, the last was Cordell William who signed onto the Cincinnati Reds in 1983.

A press release from the college says Miller "excelled on the mound as a closer, and at the plate."


Miller was an all-conference selection, making 15 appearances on the hill, working 20 innings. He allowed 10 hits and one earned run, struck out 19 and set a school record with an earned run average of 0.35. Miller recorded six saves, ranking second on JCCC’s season chart, and third for a career.

The release continues, "At the plate, Miller batted a team best.367 (65-for-177) with six doubles, three triples, five home runs and 42 RBI. His 42 RBI led the Cavaliers, and his five homers were third. In the field, Miller committed just one error in 84 chances, good for a fielding percentage of .988."

Miller's major at the college was undecided. He's originally from Scott City, Kan.