Keeping up with the Rebels plus more MLB Draft stuff

BLOG: It’s about that time of the year again to update the where-are-they-now Diamond Rebels blog. It’s no easy task attempting to keep up with all the Rebels that are now spread throughout the minor (and major) leagues. (more…) (July 6, 2011)

Prep standout takes offer he can’t refuse

While Ole Miss’ Gridiron Rebels were busy making headlines last week with their strong in-state signing class, the Diamond Rebels quietly added a verbal commitment from Madison Central left-handed pitcher Zach Irwin.

Although Irwin’s step parents are Mississippi State supporters, the 6-foot-3, 240-pounder said Ole Miss recruiting coordinator Carl Lafferty made him an offer he couldn’t refuse and as a result, he decided to give his verbal commitment to the Rebels last Friday.

Because baseball teams are allotted just 11.7 scholarships to distribute amongst 27 players on a 35-man roster — each of the 27 scholarship players must have at least .25 percent of a scholarship — the amount in which a recruit is offered is a big deal, unlike in sports like football and basketball where student athletes are awarded full scholarships. (February 8, 2011, Page 1B)

Rebs’ Pomeranz signs late-night deal

It went down to the final minutes, but Ole Miss pitcher Drew Pomeranz is now a professional baseball player.

Just before Monday’s midnight EDT deadline, the All-American pitcher signed a contract with the Cleveland Indians organization.

According to the Associated Press, the contract includes a $2.65 million signing bonus, which is just over the Major League Baseball suggested slot price for the No. 5 player ($2.52 million). (August 17, 2010, Page 6)