Fresh Mustang connections to Major League Baseball didn’t end with the draft earlier this month. Master’s graduate David Sheaffer, who transferred before his final collegiate season to pursue an international MBA program, signed a free agent contract with the Seattle Mariners on June 10.

Sheaffer, a catcher this season at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, an NCAA Division 1 program, was the second TMU alum to ink a professional contract this summer. Preston White signed with the San Francisco Giants last week.

“I’m grateful for the opportunity and couldn’t be more excited to be a part of the Mariners organization,” said Sheaffer, whose father, Danny, played parts of seven seasons in the major leagues. “The Lord has been so faithful throughout my time at Master’s and at (Wilmington), and I’m thankful He saw fit to allow me to continue playing the game I love.”

In three seasons at Master’s, Sheaffer hit .273 with 11 home runs and 128 RBIs, leading the Mustangs to the NAIA World Series in 2016 and 2017. He then transferred to Wilmington after graduation for its international MBA program. He plans to receive his degree after completing a thesis paper during the offseason.

For Wilmington, Sheaffer finished the season on a six-game hitting streak and ended up with three home runs and 18 RBIs. He tagged a two-run home run in the Colonial Athletic Association tournament championship game to help send the Seahawks to the NCAA tournament. Wilmington won two games in the Greenville Regional before being eliminated by South Carolina.

Sheaffer’s focus now shifts to pro ball, which he will begin in the Arizona League (rookie ball).

“What a thrill for us to see David get an opportunity to play professionally,” said Master’s coach Monte Brooks. “We felt like he had the skill to be able to play. He was a pillar of consistency for this program in every area. We are excited for what the Lord has in store for him.”