Texas A&M lost a four-star quarterback from its 2013 class this past week when Kohl Stewart was drafted fourth overall by the Twins. Like the Aggies, Illinois will be down a member of its ’13 class because of the draft.
In a release on Sunday, Illinois confirmed that signee Michael Hermosillo (Ottawa Twp. HS, Ottawa, Ill.) has decided to pursue his pro baseball chances with the Angels after being selected in the 28th round.
“I met with Michael and his family this morning in Champaign and he has decided to pursue a professional baseball career after being drafted by the Angels,” Illinois head coach Tim Beckman said. “The family felt it was the right fit for Michael at this time and indicated they would consider Michael’s football future once his baseball season is complete.”
Hermosillo, who was listed as an athlete by Rivals.com and projected to play either running back or defensive back, will still be able to retain NCAA eligibility should he return to the gridiron.
The release notes Hermosillo was named the Northern Illinois Big 12 Conference Player of the Year this past spring after batting .485 with a .587 on-base percentage, .912 slugging percentage, four home runs, 30 RBIs and 36 runs scored.
