In the 2025 MLB Draft, the St. Louis Cardinals selected Dallas Baptist University third baseman Michael Dattalo with the 270th overall pick in the ninth round.
Dattalo, a 22-year-old infielder, has been a consistent performer at Dallas Baptist, earning accolades such as the 2024 Conference USA Newcomer of the Year and Second Team All-Conference honors.
Position: Third Base (INF)
Height/Weight: 5’11”, 185 lbs
Bats/Throws: Right/Right
Drafted: 9th Round, 270th Overall, 2025 MLB Draft
School: Dallas Baptist University (Dallas, TX)
Hometown: Keller, TX
Michael Dattalo emerged as a standout at Dallas Baptist University after transferring from Northwestern State University. A native of Keller, Texas, Dattalo earned significant recognition during his collegiate career, including 2023 Collegiate Baseball Freshman All-American First Team and 2024 Conference USA Newcomer of the Year honors. His performance in the Cape Cod League with the Hyannis Harbor Hawks in 2024 further showcased his ability to compete against top-tier amateur talent.
Hitting
Dattalo is a contact-oriented hitter with an advanced approach at the plate. His high contact rates and disciplined eye (low strikeout rates, solid walk rates) allow him to consistently put the ball in play. In 2024, he posted a strong batting average and on-base percentage in Conference USA, leveraging a compact swing and excellent bat-to-ball skills. While not a power hitter, Dattalo can drive the ball to the gaps, with occasional over-the-fence pop (5-10 HR potential annually). His ability to work counts and avoid chasing pitches outside the zone makes him a tough out and a potential top-of-the-order contributor.
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Strengths: High contact rates, excellent plate discipline, ability to hit to all fields.
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Weaknesses: Limited raw power, may struggle against elite velocity until he refines his approach.
Defense
Dattalo is a reliable defender at third base with the potential to play multiple infield positions, including second base and shortstop. His soft hands, quick first step, and above-average instincts make him a steady presence at the hot corner. While his arm strength is average, it is sufficient for third base and could play up at second base if needed. His versatility enhances his value, as he can fill various roles depending on organizational needs.
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Strengths: Soft hands, good instincts, positional versatility.
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Weaknesses: Average arm strength, may be stretched at shortstop against premium competition.
Speed
Dattalo is an average runner with solid baserunning instincts. He is not a stolen base threat but can take extra bases on hits to the gaps and reads pitchers well to avoid pickoffs. His speed is a complementary tool rather than a defining trait, fitting his overall profile as a well-rounded player.
Intangibles
Dattalo’s work ethic and baseball IQ have been praised by coaches and scouts. His experience in high-pressure environments, such as the Cape Cod League and Conference USA, suggests he can handle the transition to professional baseball. His leadership qualities, demonstrated through his role as a key contributor at Dallas Baptist, add to his appeal as a prospect with a high floor.
Projection
Dattalo projects as a potential utility infielder with a chance to develop into a regular at second or third base if his offensive game continues to progress. His high contact rates and defensive versatility give him a relatively safe floor, likely reaching the Majors as a role player. With development, he could become a .280-.300 hitter with 10-15 HR power and strong on-base skills, making him a valuable complementary piece in a contending lineup.
