The Colorado Rockies drafted two-sport athlete Russell Wilson in the fourth round of the Major League Baseball draft Tuesday.
Wilson, a junior and first team All-ACC quarterback in 2008, was the 140th overall pick.
Baseball associate head coach Tom Holliday said Wilson now has a big decision to make.
“We want him to come back and play another year, and the football program wants him to come back,” Holliday said. “He’s got a real decision ahead of him. For most kids who get drafted in the fourth round, it means a new life for them.”
Holliday said Wilson, a right-handed pitcher and infielder during baseball season, as well as the starting football quarterback, has several options to choose from when deciding whether to go pro in baseball or return for another year.
“He has three options: he can give up college baseball and football, give up college baseball and play college football, or return for college football and baseball,” Holliday said. “When you get a chance to get a green athlete, it usually turns out to be a pretty big discussion.”
Holliday also said the position in the draft shows the caliber player that Wilson is.
“Russell Wilson has been identified by the baseball world. That’s what the draft tells you,” said Holliday. “[Being drafted] in the fourth round means he’s a pretty good prospect, and as little as he’s played is a tremendous compliment.”
Holliday said Wilson is a smart player and if anyone can make this tough decision then it’s Wilson.
“Russell loves North Carolina State, but he’s got a real decision ahead of him,” said Holliday. “There will be a lot of pressure applied to him.”
