Laurino Proves Value of Farm System

As the 763rd overall draft pick, Steve Laurino may seem like a surprise to lead the IronBirds in hits, total bases, and batting average (for players with more than 10 at-bats). But Laurino is just further proof that the long road through the MLB farm system gives players the time to develop into tomorrow's stars. And Laurino has picked up right where he left off in college.

The Marist Red Fox has exhibited his impressive play all season with his red-hot bat. Laurino's ability to get on base and score runs was showcased in the IronBirds recent 5-3 win on Monday 6/29 against the Batavia Muckdogs when he went 3 for 4 at the plate, scoring 2 runs with one RBI. In 13 plate appearances, Laurino had 6 hits, leading the IronBirds to a series sweep against Batavia. Confidence is key, and Laurino's calm demeanor on the field has shown wisdom beyond his years.

Compared to the high profile of college seniors drafted directly into major league roles in the NFL and NBA, the MLB draft is among the most overlooked and often ignored. With 40 total rounds, the intricacies of the MLB draft are not fully recognized by the casual baseball fan. Picked in the 25th round by the Baltimore Orioles, Steve Laurino is certainly not a household name. But Laurino made a name for himself in college, playing for The Marist Red Foxes in New York, where he started at first base with nearly flawless defense and the bat to match. In his 2014 senior year season, Laurino was only one of two players to start all 49 of the team's games. Laurino led the team in batting average (.299), RBI's (27) and hits (50). He was just as impressive on the defensive side of the ball, committing only 2 errors in 470 chances (.996 fielding percentage).

In Laurino's debut with the IronBirds he was held hitless with 3 strikeouts, certainly not the start he had hoped for. Since then, Laurino has been a spark of consistency for a team that has experienced an inconsistent start. With at least one hit in 9 of his 11 games, Laurino has a short memory and proved his ability to bounce back. Laurino embodies the phrase, "let your play speak for itself," and he has had a lot to say so far this summer. Steve Laurino hit his first minor league homerun, going 2-4 with one RBI in the IronBirds 2-1 loss to the Staten Island Yankees on July 2.

The beauty of the MLB farm system is that it gives hardworking players like 763rd draft pick Steve Laurino an opportunity to move through the Orioles minor league affiliates and live their dream. Laurino is off to a good start, and if he continues to impress with his play in Aberdeen this summer, the sky is the limit.