Five Active MLB Players from FoCo
Nothing ever happens in Fort Collins… except the breeding of several successful professional baseball players. Learn how these players have created a legacy not just in local baseball, but also carrying it into the ‘big leagues’.
1. Marco Gonzales:
As the first Fort Collins native to ever be picked in the MLB draft, Gonzales has paved the way for future aspiring pro-baseball players particularly in the Northern-Colorado area. The now starting pitcher for the Seattle Mariners graduated from Rocky Mountain High School and helped lead his Varsity team to 4-straight state championship victories. Drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in the first round of the 2013 MLB Draft, Gonzales continues to move mountains with his success.
2. JD Hammer:
Born and raised in Fort Collins, former FCHS lambkin, JD Hammer, made his MLB debut in 2019 as a Philadelphia Philly. Although, the reliever pitcher was initially drafted by the Colorado Rockies, his time with Philadelphia has proven to be successful with an overall ERA of 3.35.
3. Andy Burns:
Having first began his professional baseball career in the Korea Baseball Organization, the former Rocky Mountain High School infielder has been active in the MLB as a Toronto Blue Jay and now sports the Dodger blue uniform in Los Angeles. Along with his former teammate, Marco Gonzalez, Burns, helped lead the Lobos to 2 straight 5A state championship victories.
4. Chad Bell:
Picked in the 19th round of the 2019 MLB draft, former Rocky Mountain High School infielder is currently playing as a third baseman for a Yankees double-A affiliate team, the Somerset Patriots.
5. Julian Garcia
Growing up a Fort Collins Native, former Fossil Ridge High School Sabercat, Julian Garcia, was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 2016 MLB draft. Playing on the rookie affiliate team, the pitcher had an outstanding season in 2018 with seven wins and only three losses.
