Four Miami Hurricanes Selected on Day Two of MLB Draft

The University of Miami had a remarkable showing in the 2023 MLB Draft, with several talented third-year players making their mark in the early rounds. LifeWallet athlete CJ Kayfus, Alejandro Rosario, Zach Levenson, and Dominic Pitelli were all selected on the second day of the draft, joining LifeWallet athletes Yohandy Morales and Andrew Walters as the six Hurricanes chosen in the top 10 rounds, which tied a program record.

CJ Kayfus, known for his exceptional hitting abilities, heard his name called in the third round, becoming the 93rd overall pick by the Cleveland Guardians. With a .350 batting average, 24 home runs, and 98 RBI over his three years at Miami, Kayfus proved himself to be one of the most outstanding hitters in the country. In the 2023 season alone, the 6-foot, 192-pound junior earned All-ACC Second Team distinction for the second consecutive year, boasting a .347 average and a career-high 13 home runs. His sophomore season was a breakout one, where he made waves in college baseball with an eighth-place finish in the ACC for batting average (.366), tied for eighth in hits (87), tied for ninth in stolen bases (16), and 11th in on-base percentage (.460).

Alejandro Rosario, a flame-throwing right-hander, showcased his skills as a formidable pitcher for the Hurricanes throughout his collegiate career. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 182 pounds, Rosario earned 12 wins and struck out an impressive 192 batters over 194 1/3 innings pitched. A Miami native, Rosario made an immediate impact when he arrived at The U, becoming the first true freshman in a decade to start a game on the mound on opening weekend. His talent on the field led to him being named a Second-Team Freshman All-American by Perfect Game.

Zach Levenson, a team captain, brought valuable experience and leadership to Miami’s outfield during his second year in Coral Gables. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 211 pounds, Levenson proved to be a powerful hitter, registering a .292 batting average, a career-best 14 home runs, and 45 RBI. His performance stood out with a team-high 17 doubles, and he was one of the two Hurricanes to play in all 63 games. Over his collegiate career, the native of Oviedo, Florida, maintained an impressive .295 batting average with 21 home runs, 73 RBI, and a .951 OPS.

Dominic Pitelli, known for his exceptional defensive skills, showcased his batting prowess to cap off his collegiate career. As a junior, Pitelli led all ACC shortstops with 13 home runs and 54 RBI, while maintaining a .294 average. Hailing from Miami, Pitelli became the first Hurricane shortstop since Ryan Braun in 2003 to produce double-digit home runs and 50 RBI. Throughout his 175-game career, he boasted a .258 average with 25 home runs, 113 RBI, and 23 stolen bases.

Miami’s impressive showing in the 2023 MLB Draft extends beyond their program record of six players selected, as they also secured the distinction of having the second most players drafted from the ACC.

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