Braves take SCF pitcher Michael Gizzi in 35th round

Michael Gizzi only logged  2/3 of an inning on the mound for State College of Florida, Manatee-Sarasota, this season, but the Braves want to take a chance on the outfielder as a pitcher. Atlanta chose the sophomore with its 35th-round pick Saturday during the MLB draft.

Gizzi wasn’t particularly effective during his lone outing as a junior college right-handed pitcher. The Winter Park native allowed one hit, walked two and surrendered two earned runs.

As an outfielder, Gizzi was more productive. The Maitland Orangewood Christian alumnus batted .245 with 23 runs and six stolen bases. The 6-foot-4 prospect excelled during conference play for State College of Florida, batting .298 with a .429 on-base percentage in 71 plate appearances.

This story was originally published June 11, 2016 at 5:14 PM with the headline "Braves take SCF pitcher Michael Gizzi in 35th round."