The Diamondbacks have signed fifth rounder Connor Foley. Selected with the No. 164 pick out of the University of Indiana, Foley will receive a $1 million signing bonus according to MLB Pipeline’s Senior Writer Jim Callis. That’s more than $600K over the $392K slot value for the pick. A draft-eligible sophomore, it’s a nice get for the right-hander.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!5th-rder Connor Foley signs w/@Dbacks for $1 million (slot 164 = $392,300). @IndianaBase RHP, 93-95 mph to 99 on fastball with good induced vertical break, nice fade & tumble on low-80s changeup. @MLBDraft pic.twitter.com/ofh2sdeAiS
— Jim Callis (@jimcallisMLB) July 21, 2024
Arizona is gambling on Foley developing into a high-octane starter based on the bonus number. He sits mid-90s with a top speed of 99 MPH and rising action on his four-seamer. He also complements that with a slider and a changeup. With an athletic 6’5″ 235-lb. frame, he has the physical tools to be a starter but relies on chases for strikes than actual command.
This is not an unprecedented situation, as the organization gave Grayson Hitt a $1.2 million bonus in 2023 despite falling to the fourth round due to Tommy John surgery. Hitt flashed middle-of-the-rotation potential the fall before his stuff backed up in the spring, then surgery. They’ve also taken a chance on developing two-way player Caden Grice, although Grice will be out until 2026 recovering from his own Tommy John surgery.
The Diamondbacks now have reportedly signed two of their draft picks. Fourth rounder Tytus Cissell already expressed a desire to sign with Arizona, although terms have not been disclosed.
4th rounder Tytus Cissell becomes first drafted player to sign with Diamondbacks
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Michael McDermott covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and more for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on X via @MichaelMcDMLB
