Coronado High School Grad Ivan Melendez Announces Return to Texas for 2022
After the Miami Marlins selected Texas baseball designated hitter Ivan Melendez in the 16th round of the 2021 MLB draft last week, the redshirt sophomore had a huge decision to make about his future.
On Wednesday, Melendez made an announcement that will excite Longhorn fans via Twitter—"Let's run it back."
"I wanted to thank the Miami Marlins for selecting me in this years draft, but I will be returning to Texas this fall. I also wanted to congratulate my teammates who have been selected and chosen to move on with their careers. #hookem #needit," wrote Melendez on Twitter.
The Hispanic Titanic had a breakout offensive season for the Horns in 2021. He played in 59 games and led the team in hitting with a batting line of .319/.438/.608 (average, on base percentage, slugging percentage). He totaled 13 home runs, 65 hits, 13 doubles and 51 RBIs through the Longhorns' quest for a College Baseball World Series title. His offensive efforts earned him a spot as a First Team All-Big 12 (DH).
Some of the highlights for his sophomore season included a huge stretch in April where he homered in six straight games.
Melendez was ranked as a top-200 prospect by ESPN leading up to the draft. Since he played sparingly on defense, it is believed that there were uncertainties by MLB teams with Melendez's defense. It is expected that Melendez will prioritize defense this offseason and play in the infield for Texas.
If he can prove to play solid on defense next season and continues his power-hitting ways, Melendez has a chance to boost his draft stock significantly. Plus, with the new NIL decision that the NCAA passed, the Hispanic Titanic has a chance to earn some extra cash through endorsements as a big name among Texas baseball cirlces.
Upon graduating from Coronado, Melendez spent a season at Odessa College where he first attracted the attention of Texas coaches. Now, Melendez has a chance to be a key component of the Texas baseball 2022 roster.