Hofstra third baseman Ricky Caputo (Miller Place, NY/Miller Place - pictured) was selected in the 24th round by the Washington Nationals during the second day of the 2006 Major League Baseball Draft. He is the first Hofstra player to be selected in the MLB Draft since 1995 when Mike Miller was selected in the 29th round by the Detroit Tigers.

"This is a dream come true," Caputo said. "I am so happy that all of the hard-work and dedication has paid off. I can't thank all of my teammates and coaches over the years enough for their contribution to this day. For they have been a large part of my success."

Caputo, a four-year contributor, has played in 201 career games for the Pride, tied for first all-time in Hofstra history. 

During his senior year, Caputo hit .324 with 12 home runs and 47 runs batted in and became Hofstra's all-time leader in hits with 242 and triples with 10.  He is also a two-year co-captain for the Pride and a 2006 All-Colonial Athletic Association second team selection.

In 2003, Caputo's freshman year, he played in 40 games, starting 37 of them.  Caputo's freshman year saw him post a .271 average with two home runs and 20 RBI.  He also saw time on the mound, pitching in six games, starting five, and posting a 2-1 overall record. 

During his sophomore year, Caputo exploded as a player appearing in 50 games, posting a .361 batting average with eight home runs and 41 RBI.  His production at the plated earned him his first of three All-CAA second team selections. 

In 2005, Caputo's success continued and his power developed as he belted a career high 12 home runs and 52 RBI.  He was once again named an All-CAA second team selection as well as an American Baseball Coaches Association/Rawlings All-East Region second team selection. 

Caputo's success led the Pride to its first CAA playoff berth in 2005 and has helped the team amass over 74 wins, including back-to-back 24 plus win seasonsin 2005 and 2006.

"I am so excited and proud that Ricky has the great opportunity to play at the next level," Pride Head Baseball Coach Chris Dotolo commented. "It is most gratifying to see his efforts and committment all these years pay off. He is a true example of a player who gives 100 percent day in and day out. I wish him all the success in the world."