Sox Snag Top Lefty In Draft

Thanks to some character questions and signability concerns, the Boston Red Sox had one of the top overall prospects in the 2016 MLB Draft fall into their laps last night, in the first round.

After being passed on by the first 11 teams with selections in the draft, New Jersey left-handed pitcher Jason Groome, out of Barnegat High School, was snagged by Boston with the 12th overall pick.

Groome, who had originally committed to play college baseball at perennial powerhouse and pitching factory Vanderbilt University, but announced earlier in the week that he had changed his mind and instead committed to play at Chipola College, a junior college in Florida.

Many suspected that decision was made due to the fact that attending a JuCo would allow Groome to re-enter the 2017 draft, whereas going to a major University would have forced him to stay in school for at least three years.

With question marks surrounding some back and forth movement between Barnegat and IMG Academy over the last couple of years, which also resulted in the lefty being declared ineligible for a time this season, and concerns about mental make up, Groome was considered a candidate not only to slide in the draft but to also take a year to rebuild his draft status.

Aside from the uncertainty off the field that had been hanging around Groome lately, the 17-year-old can pitch. He can rattle his fastball off in the upper 90s and has pretty strong secondary pitches including an impressive curveball for someone his age.

According to a RedSox.com report, the left hander is also a Red Sox fan, which should help them sign the talented prospect. It will take a hefty sum, however.

For now, Red Sox Nation should be very excited about the pick and, provided he signs, excited about the future as well.