Levi Michael signs with Minnesota Twins

Quiet confidence manifests itself in Levi Michael.

The former North Carolina shortstop might not be known for motivational speeches or words of wisdom. But Michael, who was selected No. 30 overall in the 2011 MLB draft on June 6, signed a deal with the Minnesota Twins worth nearly $1.2 million.

And that says a lot about the Tar Heels’ silent leader.

“He’s not a big talker,” teammate Chris Munnelly said.

“But the way he plays makes everybody else step up so they can match his level.”

Michael entered the baseball scene for UNC six months early and is the only baseball player in North Carolina history who has forgone part of his senior year of high school to join the college ranks.

During his freshman year, Michael started 65 of 66 games at second base, earned Louisville Slugger Freshman All-America honors and was named to the Freshman All-America second team.

“Nobody expected a lot from him that year because of how young he was,” coach Mike Fox said.

“But he came, and he played and had a huge impact on the program.”

After struggling with injuries, Michael finished his junior year with a career .306 batting average, 183 runs, 159 RBI and 81 extra-base hits — leaving his mark on the Tar Heel squad before moving on to the big leagues.

“He’s so resilient,” Munnelly said.

“He’s such a good player that even a hurt Levi is an all-star on the field. He’s definitely the best defensive infielder I’ve ever played with.”

Michael is the sixth Tar Heel to be drafted in the first round since 2006, and as a switch-hitter, he has a chance to be a unique asset for the Twins.

“He’s very versatile,” Fox said. “He’s just got to get in there and manage the grind of the professional schedule. If he improves every day, he’s got as good a shot as anybody.”

Seniors Greg Holt, Jesse Wierzbicki and Patrick Johnson signed contracts in June at the conclusion of the College World Series.

Junior catcher Jacob Stallings was selected in the 42nd round by the Cincinnati Reds, but did not sign Aug. 15 — the signing deadline for MLB’s first-year player draft — and will remain at UNC for his senior campaign.

Five incoming freshmen were drafted, too, but elected not to sign professional contracts. They will join 12 other freshmen in Chapel Hill this fall.

Michael came to North Carolina early, and on Aug. 15, he bid UNC a premature farewell.

But for the star shortstop, a highly anticipated journey awaits.

“It’s an exciting experience for me and my family,” Michael said in a press release after he was drafted.

He added, “It feels good to be drafted, and I would like to thank all the coaching staff and training staff here at Carolina for all their help. I couldn’t have done it without them. It is good to see that all my hard work has paid off.”

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