Saint Leo University left-handed pitcher Jared Beck was selected with the first pick of the thirteenth round of the 2022 Major League Baseball Draft by the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday afternoon. Beck is the 54^th Lion drafted out of Saint Leo University. Standing at 7 feet Beck would be the tallest to play in Major League Baseball. He follows LHP Jimmy Burnette (2021- Blue Jays) who is currently in Double A.
 
In his two-year career in the Green and Gold, Beck struck out 141 in 101.2 IP; in 2022 he landed in the top three in the SSC in strikeouts and top 4 in BAVG. (.217). In 2022 Beck started 13 games and threw in 68.1 innings while striking out 105 he walked on 31 batters faced, a WHIP of 1.26, and an ERA of 3.95.
 
The newly drafted Beck, stated "I have been through a lot of adversity but I couldn't be happier to have played for a team with a different type of drive and heart from the coaches to the players. It really made it easy to go out and compete every day. My time at Saint Leo has been a great chapter in my life and I'm happy I can call it home."
 
Beck was an instrumental part of the Lions' historic 2022 season, with 36 wins for the Green and Gold.  The Lions would go on to host the South Region tournament and finish in top 25 finish nationally. Beck was named Second-Team all SSC as well as SSC Pitcher of the Week in March.
 
Head Coach Rick O'Dette stated "Our program is very proud of Jared and all that he accomplished at Saint Leo. Jared was a big part of our program's success this past season and we are excited for the future of our program because of guys like Jared. He exemplifies what it means to be a Lion, hardworking, relentless competitor, and great person. We are excited about watching him progress through his professional career."
 
The Lions return to campus in August looking to build off their strong 2022 campaign.