The Arizona Diamondbacks have signed Druw Jones, as they have wasted no time negotiating a contract with their first selection in the 2022 MLB Draft. Jones, a centerfielder, has an excellent baseball heritage. He is the son of former ten-time Gold Glove award winner Andruw Jones, most notably of the Atlanta Braves.
How Jones Became a Diamondback
Arizona had the second overall pick, and were hoping somehow that they could get Druw Jones. The Baltimore Orioles, who have the one of the top farm systems in baseball are loaded with outfield talent, but they needed help for their farm system with their infield. When they chose shortstop Jackson Holliday, the Diamondbacks organization was certainly overjoyed.
Questions About Signing Him
The Arizona Diamondbacks have signed Druw Jones. However, there had been some concerns as to whether the team could sign the 18-year-old, who had provisionally committed to play baseball at Vanderbilt. Instead, his agent Scott Boras and the Diamondbacks organization worked out a deal for $8,185,100.
This is the second year in a row this organization has signed their top pick. Jordan Lawlar, the number six overall pick in 2021, signed his deal. He is already showing everyone that very soon he will be MLB-ready, having climbed his way through the farm system.
Meets Media and Takes Batting Practice
Druw Jones met the media, and took batting practice before Saturday’s game against the Washington Nationals. He debuted before the fans when he threw out the ceremonial first pitch. He got to do all this with his father watching as well.
Jones was interviewed by Bally Sports Arizona, and told Jody Jackson and former Diamondbacks great Mark Grace that his age does not mean anything. He is ready to go, ready to be out there and competing.
During his batting practice, Jones was hitting the ball all over the field, and even hit one out for a home run. He took some ribbing from left fielder David Peralta when shagging fly balls in the outfield. Peralta told him if he dropped this or that fly, he had to buy everyone dinner. Something that really caught everyone’s eye after his batting practice was, he walked over, and engaged with the fans. He seemed to enjoy the interaction as well with the of signing autographs.
He also threw out the first pitch, for a strike no less. A bonus for Diamondbacks fans, Jones’ catcher for that pitch was another young outfielder helping shape this organizations future, center fielder Alek Thomas. Thomas is a candidate for NL Rookie of the Year.
No Time for Rest
The Arizona Diamondbacks have signed Druw Jones, and he has no time for rest. To begin his career, he is being assigned to the Arizona Complex League Rookie-level circuit. If he hits well in the Complex League, he should see time with Single-A Visalia Rawhide. That’s where most of the top picks from the MLB draft get started.
Future is Bright
Like most of the Diamondbacks’ recent draft prospects, Druw Jones has the defensive skills that both general manager Mike Hazen and manager Torey Lovullo talk about when it comes to the franchise’s beliefs on roster structure. The future of the team’s outfield is bright with center fielder Alek Thomas, who is just 22-years old, and is currently in his rookie year. Top overall prospect Corbin Carroll, who is 21 years old, will be called up soon. They also have Daulton Varsho, who turned 26 two weeks ago. The Diamondbacks have a very good outfield for years to come. Druw Jones has the chance to be that franchise player that fans will follow and support over the years. He will engage with younger fans, while his talent will provide older fans the type of baseball player they love to see.
Main Photo:
Embed from Getty Images
Players/Managers Mentioned:
Druw Jones, Andruw Jones, Jackson Holliday, Jordan Lawlar, Mark Grace, David Peralta, Alek Thomas, Torey Lovullo, Corbin Carroll, Daulton Varsho
