The Chicago White Sox and their second-round draft pick Jared Kelley have officially agreed to a deal. The Texas prep arm will be receiving $3,000,000 in an over-slot signing.
Kelley, 18, posted an 0.22 ERA and 144 strikeouts over 65.0 innings pitched in his 2019 junior season. The Refugio, Texas native looked to be on a similar path of success after not allowing a hit and striking out 34 batters over 12.0 scoreless innings in 2020. Kelley entered the draft rated as the No. 12 overall, No. 3 high school and No. 4 right-handed pitching prospect by MLB Pipeline. His signability concerns are what led to his second-round slide, though the White Sox drafted strategically in the following rounds to have the available funds to get a deal done.
“This is a moment I’ve been dreaming about for as long as I can remember and still can’t believe it’s real,” said Kelley in a press release. “None of this would be possible without the love and support from my mom, dad, brother, and the many coaches and teammates I’ve had along the way. I’d like to thank the Chicago White Sox for taking a chance on me and I promise to give you, and White Sox fans everywhere, everything I’ve got.”
Between this deal and the Bailey Horn signing that followed it, the organization has managed to lock up all five of their draft picks.
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This kid seems to have the talent and emotional make-up to become a special pitcher.
Looks like a grand slam pick for the Sox.
So pumped about Jared signing Go Sox!