Vanderbilt shortstop Jonathan Vastine was selected with the 580th pick of the 2025 MLB Draft by the San Diego Padres. He becomes the seventh Commodore taken in this year’s draft class.
Vastine arrived at Vanderbilt in 2021 as a highly touted recruit from Bartow, Florida. In high school, he excelled as both a hitter and a pitcher, but under Commodore head coach Tim Corbin, he was used exclusively as a shortstop.
After limited playing time as a first year, Vastine made significant strides heading into his sophomore year, starting all 62 games and hitting .287 with 5 home runs and 34 RBIs. In his junior campaign in 2024, Vastine took another leap forward, posting a .299/.384/.545 slash line and doubling his home run total to 10. He also led all Division I shortstops in defensive runs saved, showcasing his elite two-way abilities.
Entering his senior season, he was ranked the No. 1 senior player in college baseball by Perfect Game. He remained a key contributor in his final year, batting .270 with 35 RBIs. One of Vastine’s most memorable moments came on May 16 against Kentucky, when, after rolling his ankle in the first inning, he launched two home runs — including a walk-off two-run shot — to deliver one of the VandyBoys’ biggest wins of the season.
Vastine’s combination of steady offensive production and outstanding defense at a premium position makes him a compelling prospect. His skill set and leadership give him a real chance to succeed in the pros as a member of the Padres.
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