Joey Bart Highlights Giants 2018 MLB Amateur Draft Class

The recipient of a doctor of medicine degree from the University of Southern California, Dr. Gregory Tapson operates a private primary care practice and serves as medical director of Cypress Ridge Skilled Nursing Facility. An avid sports fan, Gregory Tapson counts the San Francisco Giants as his favorite Major League Baseball (MLB) team. 

The 2018 MLB Amateur Draft began on June 4 and the Giants held the second overall pick for the second time in franchise history and first time in 33 years. The team used the pick to select Georgia Tech catcher Joey Bart, who is regarded as an all-around player with strong defensive and offensive capabilities. He led the Atlantic Coast Conference in batting average (.359) and finished second in slugging percentage (.632) last season. He also hit 16 home runs and drove in 38 runs. Although he struck out 56 times, he drew 25 more walks than the season prior and improved his on-base percentage from .370 to .471. The Giants have picked four players in the top five of the draft, and all of them have gone on to achieve All-Star status in their careers.

With its second pick in the draft, the Giants added Sean Hjelle out of the University of Kentucky. The 6-foot-11 right-handed pitcher, who registered a 3.44 earned run average and struck out 91 batters in 99 and one-third innings last season, was named Southeastern Conference Pitcher of the Year in 2017. Pitchers Jake Wong, Blake Rivera, and Keaton Winn rounded out the team's top five picks in the 40-round draft.

Tips for Lowering Cholesterol

Family practice physician Dr. Gregory Tapson has operated a private practice in Carmel, California, since 1996. Providing annual checkups and preventive healthcare, physicians like Dr. Gregory Tapson strive to lower the risks of cardiovascular disease by keeping track of patients’ cholesterol levels through blood work. 

When lab work reveals heightened cholesterol levels, physicians can prescribe medicine, or dietary and lifestyle changes. For those wishing to avoid medication, or for those who wish to enhance its effects, the Mayo Clinic encourages heart-healthy meal choices such as increased fiber intake and healthy fats, along with reduced consumption of saturated fats. Other food items that promote heart health include bright-colored vegetables and fruits, which contain cholesterol-inhibiting molecules in addition to fiber. 

It is also recommended that those concerned about cholesterol increase physical activity, especially cardiovascular exercise. Brisk walks can help lower unhealthy cholesterol levels. 

If you have questions about your heart health and cholesterol, make an appointment with your physician.