Nicol was selected with the 34th overall pick in the second round. The catcher is from Wolcott, Connecticut, and played collegiately at Central Connecticut State University. Over four seasons, Nicol produced consistently at the plate, compiling a .277 batting average with 101 hits, 81 runs batted in and a .387 on-base percentage. He also spent time in summer leagues, further refining his game on both sides of the ball.