USC pitcher Jack Wynkoop drafted by Colorado Rockies
It was shaping up to be a tough decision, but then Jack Wynkoop’s phone beeped.
Wynkoop, South Carolina’s ace junior left-hander, was chosen later than expected during Tuesday’s second day of the Major League Baseball Draft, but was picked with the second selection of the sixth round. At number 167 overall, Colorado’s choice can command just under $300,000 as a signing bonus.
“What a crazy day, thanks to the @Rockies for giving me a chance to achieve my dream,” Wynkoop said through his Instagram page. “More importantly thank you Jesus, my family, friends, teammates and coaches that have showed me nothing but love and support. Also, can’t forget the awesome fans that I’ve been spoiled by for the last three years, love you guys. #ForeverToThee.”
Unlike Kyle Martin, Wynkoop has bargaining power and the Rockies can give him the full amount of his slot. It is expected that Wynkoop will opt to bypass his senior year and go pro.
Wynkoop became the Gamecocks’ go-to pitcher this season, going 8-5 with a 3.27 ERA and one save. He struck out 86 and walked 14 in 104 2/3 innings.
GAMECOCKS IN 2015 MLB DRAFT
(Name, position, school, round (number), MLB team)
Nick Neidert (signee), RHP, Peachtree Ridge (Ga.) HS, 2 (60), Mariners
Kyle Martin, 1B, South Carolina, 4 (114), Phillies
Jack Wynkoop, LHP, South Carolina, 6 (167), Rockies
This story was originally published June 9, 2015 at 3:29 PM.