Gator alum Colby Halter talks Going Pro

The MLB Draft was an exciting time to be a Florida Gator. Six Gators heard their names called during the three-day draft, but one had to wait a little longer than the others. Colby Halter, the ultimate team player, was willing to wait for his opportunity, just like in Omaha. Halter spoke about the Gators’ magical season, Omaha and his journey to the pros on Sport Scene.

Hard Times Never Halted Colby

Last season, Halter was eligible for the draft but decided to return to Florida for his junior year. This year, he said it was the best time to start his professional career.

Halter always dreamed of being a Florida Gator. The Jacksonville native was a highly touted high school prospect, and he decided to stay in-state to play for his favorite team. He quickly burst onto the scene with an impressive freshman season, batting .302 and starting 44 games. It seemed he had the potential to become a star for the Gators.

However, things don’t always go as planned. Halter regressed at the dish over the next two seasons, hitting sub-.25o in both his sophomore and junior campaigns. And when the Gators reached the SEC Tournament, he was replaced in the lineup. Though, he took it in stride.

Despite not being a part of the team in the conference tournament, he ultimately regained his spot at third base. The left-handed hitter’s steady bat and defensive prowess helped propel the Gators to the Men’s College World Series Final.

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A Once in a Lifetime Trip in Omaha

As the Gators secured their spot in the College World Series, Halter knew he had a rare opportunity to play on one of the biggest stages in baseball. He never had a doubt that the resilient Gator squad would make a deep run, especially after consistently creating comebacks all season long.

While they eventually came up short, the Gators proved they were one of the best teams in the country, and they did it in front of the Gator Nation who backed them night-in and night-out. Halter made it clear that the support from Gator fans was a huge factor in why the team was able to make a magical run.

Halter Heading to the Show

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After waiting two days to hear his name called, Halter was ultimately selected by the Oakland Athletics with the 496th overall pick in the 17th round. After skipping out on going pro last season, he decided that he’s ready to make the jump to the next level. He won’t have to wait long to get started with his new organization.

Baseball America’s Carlos Collazo reported Halter signed a $125,000 entry level deal with the A’s, which is the maximum amount for a Day 3 selection.

Farewell to a Florida Faithful

While his time in the Orange and Blue has come to an end, Halter hopefully will have plenty of baseball left in his career.