Kevin Heller entered Amherst College with big league aspirations. After getting drafted by the Red Sox in the 40th round of this year’s MLB Draft, the 2012 graduate is one step closer to accomplishing his dream.
Heller put together a superb career at Amherst, which is also the alma mater of Boston general manager Ben Cherington (1996). Heller finished his career as the school’s all-time leader in hits (172), runs (136), RBIs (126) and total bases (275). He is also tied for the most home runs (18).
Heller went through a stressful predraft process that included playing in front of scouts regularly, but he wasn’t sure where he’d get drafted or even whether he’d get drafted at all. Fortunately for Heller, on Day 3, the Red Sox scooped him up with the 1,231st pick — just seven more picks remained after he was selected.
The Brooklyn native, who admits he grew up a Yankees fan, is ready to make the transition to becoming a member of Red Sox Nation. As you’d expect, he’s a fan of whoever is willing to give him a shot at achieving his ultimate goal.
NESN.com’s Ricky Doyle caught up with Heller to discuss the outfielder’s college career, his predraft activities, his lengthy draft wait and his future.
Listen in the player below, or subscribe on iTunes to download it there.
