Braves draft former Tigers' hurler
By Staff
Wes Letson selected after junior year at Birmingham Southern
Staff Reports, Hartselle Enquirer
Former Hartselle baseball player Wes Leston has achieved part of a life long dream.
Leston was drafted by the Atlanta Braves and can now work toward his goal of playing in the major leagues.
In an interview earlier this year, Leston told the Enquirer that playing professionally at the highest level was his ultimate goal.
"It would mean a lot to me to be drafted," Leston said. "Every kid that puts on a little league uniform dreams of playing in the majors. Getting drafted and playing minor league ball is the road that takes you there."
Leston was selected in the 11th round by the Atlanta Braves.
He was the third left-handed pitcher the Braves chose during Monday's draft.
Leston helped the Panthers of Birmingham Southern to reach the NCAA regional playoffs for the first time this season.
He posted a 12-3 record in 2004 and finished his college career with 21 wins.
Leston thinks that having a variety of pitches will help him to reach the major leagues one day.
"I have five pitches," Letson said. "I throw a two-seam and four-seam fastball, as well as a curve, a change and a knuckleball."
Leston was a member of the Tigers 2000 state championship team.