Undrafted Hatton to sign a pro contract

Southeast Missouri State University senior center fielder Vern Hatton, who went undrafted in last week's two-day Major League draft, will sign a contract Thursday with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Hatton, who led Southeast in most offensive categories in his final season, will report to Class A Vero Beach (Fla.) on Thursday.

Hatton was in contact with Dodgers scout Mitch Webster throughout the season and was disappointed when he was not among two Indians players taken in the draft. Pitcher Brandon Smith was chosen by the Boston Red Sox in the 20th round and Zach Borowiak was taken by the San Francisco Giants in the 49th round of the 50-round draft.

"It was definitely a disappointment cause I thought I deserved a chance to play at the next level," said Hatton, who returned home to Chicago after the season. "I played my heart out and got nothing."

He led the Indians, who reached the NCAA regional playoffs and finished with a 37-20 record, with a .369 average and 58 RBIs from his cleanup spot. He also had team-high totals in runs (58), hits (82) and triples (9). His nine home runs were one behind team leader Tristen McDonald.

Confronting the possible end of his career, Hatton said he was shocked when he was contacted by Webster on Tuesday night and asked if he still wanted to play baseball.

When Hatton expressed his desire to play, "He said I was drafted and welcome to the organization."

Added Hatton, "I think I'm the first guy to get drafted in the 51st round."

Southeast coach Mark Hogan had recent contact with Webster, who inquired about the 6-foot-2, 200-pound Hatton possibly switching to catcher.

"He said when he called me they'd leave me as an outfielder," Hatton said. "I told Mitch I'd do anything -- I'd be the bat boy if they wanted me to."

Hogan said the Dodgers are getting a five-tool player with a pro-type body.

"Mitch was persistent because he believed in Vern," Hogan said. "It's a good break. It just takes one pro guy to believe in you and that's what happened with Vern."