Delta State University

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior shortstop Devin Goodwin, an honorable mention all-American by the National Collegiate Baseball Writers Association, was selected with the 999th pick in the 33rd round of the 2009 Major League Baseball Amateur Draft by the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday. Goodwin’s selection marks the first Statesmen to be taken in this year’s draft. 

“We’re very excited for Devin and his family today,” said Mike Kinnison, Delta State head coach. “Devin has always put his heart and soul into the game and I believe all he needs is a chance. I’m glad the Cardinals have given him the opportunity today.” 

The Russellville, Ala., native led the Statesmen to a 38-16 mark this season, and a share of the Gulf South Conference West Division title. The Russellville, Ala., native batted .345 with a team-leading 68 runs scored and 18 doubles. The power-hitting middle infielder also slapped 12 home runs and drove in 51 runs, while swiping 18 bases in 19 attempts. 

Goodwin, a three-time All-GSC selection and two-time All-Region pick, was named First Team All-GSC West Division and First Team All-South Region by the NCBWA this year. 

Goodwin established a new Gulf South Conference record for career assists this season with 675. In 210 career games, the speedster batted .332 with 260 hits, 201 runs scored, 57 doubles, six triples, 37 home runs, and 185 RBIs, while swiping 38 bases in 48 career attempts. His career hits, runs scored, home runs, doubles, games played, total bases, and RBIs all rank in Delta State’s all-time career top 10 list.