By TOM ZEBOLD

USF Senior Writer

TAMPA – USF's Jimmy Falla and Chad Taylor will soon be fitted for pinstripes after signing free agent contracts with the New York Yankees.

“They both were given a great opportunity by the Yankees and hopefully they'll do the best they can. If Chad and Jimmy do what they're capable of doing they'll be just fine,” head coach Lelo Prado said Monday.

Falla made his senior season a memorable one by putting together a career year at the plate. The All-Big East selection batted .315 while leading the Bulls with 50 RBIs and his 22 doubles rank sixth in USF's single-season history books. The versatile first baseman/outfielder also led the Bulls with 13 multiple RBI games and 19 multi-hit games while collecting four hits in three contests.

“He had a great year and I'm so happy he's going to get an opportunity now with the Yankees,” Prado said. “I think he'll do OK. He can play outfield, he can play infield and he'll represent the Yankees in the right way.”

Taylor, a hard throwing right-hander, had a ton of success in his first full season as a collegiate pitcher, posting a team-high four saves and a 2-0 record as a senior. The Tampa native registered a 3.86 ERA and struck out 21 batters in 32 2/3 innings.

“Nowadays you don't see a lot of fresh arms and he's got one,” Prado said. “I think he got better and better as the season went on and I think Chad will do well playing pro ball and focusing on pitching every day.”

USF's undrafted free agent signee total is now up to three after Joey Lovecchio joined the Toronto Blue Jays last week.  The senior right-hander went 5-6 as USF's Sunday starter with a 4.40 ERA and 48 strikeouts in 77 2/3 innings.

“He did everything we asked of him here. He was a solid guy for us and I'm glad for him,” Prado said.