Blue & Gold Illustrated: America's Foremost Authority on Notre Dame Football
Issue link: https://comanpub.uberflip.com/i/499410
IRISH IN THE PROS the last decade, Notre Dame is still tied for 13th in the land with 40 NFL draftees, including five first-round se- lections, during the last 10 years. Over the last two seasons, the Irish have produced 14 selections, which ranks as the fourth-most during that span. A former Irish standout has been selected in the first round in each of the last three events, marking the pro- gram's first such streak since 1992-94, although it is certain to come to an end this year. The school has produced at least one pick in the draft every year since 1977, and even if there is not a first-rounder, that impressive streak is almost cer- tainly going to continue. Tight end Ben Koyack, cornerback Cody Riggs, wide receiver DaVaris Daniels and kicker Kyle Brindza are the best bets to hear their names called April 30-May 2. MLB PLAYERS UPDATE Through April 20 • John Axford (Played at Notre Dame from 2002‑05), RHP, Colorado Rockies: Signed a minor league contract with Colorado this offseason and made the big-league roster out of spring training … However, as the spring was winding down, his son Jameson, who turns 3 in June, was bitten by a rattlesnake in the backyard of the home the family rented for spring training … The reliever was put on the family medical emergency list April 12 to help tend to his son, who has dealt with complications after his initial surgery … He did appear in one game before taking that leave of absence, and he pitched a scoreless inning April 8 for his first save of 2015. • David Phelps (2006‑08), RHP, Miami Marlins: Was traded this offseason from the New York Yan- kees to the Marlins … Pitched in two games out of the bullpen to start the season, allowing four runs in an inning of work … Made his first start of the season April 17 and tossed 4 2 ⁄3 inning while allowing just one hit and one earned run, and walking three while striking out two, but did not factor into the decision … Had a 7.94 ERA through three appearances. • A.J. Pollock (2007‑10), OF, Arizona Diamond‑ backs: Has played in all 13 games so far for Arizona … Was hitting .356 with one home run, six RBI and one stolen base. • Jeff Samardzija (2003‑06), RHP, Chicago White Sox: Was the opening-day starter for his new club, which he was traded to this offseason from the Oakland Athletics … In three starts, he was 0-1 with a 4.29 ERA and has struck out 14 in 21 innings pitched. ✦ Kicker/punter Kyle Brindza is a candidate to be drafted this season. PHOTO BY BILL PANZICA