Major League Baseball

College coach believes Pirates made right selection in first round

Published Jun. 11, 2015 5:03 p.m. ET

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The Pirates used their first round pick in the MLB Draft on University of Arizona shortstop Kyle Newman.

Newman's college coach, Andy Lopez, also happens to be close to Pirates closer Mark Melancon and the two were able to catch up earlier this week with the conversation including Newman at some points.

"He's like you: great makeup and a quality, quality human being," Lopez told Melancon, according to Pirates.com. "I think Pittsburgh will be really happy when they see him on a day-in, day-out basis."

Newman, a 21-year old, impressed many with his drive and work ethic and his former coach really believes the Pirates got a good one.

"He's geared. He's ready. He'll go out and do a good job," Lopez said. "I'm not shocked. I'm happy for him, happy for the Pirates organization, because he's a special young guy. He really is."

(h/t Pirates.com)

Photo Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports