Chase Jaworsky dreamed of playing professional baseball his whole life. The Houston Astros made that a reality Monday, selecting him in the fifth round of the MLB Draft with the 164th pick.
Jaworsky will pass on his commitment to Utah Valley to sign with the Astros.
“My family and I felt I was ready for pro ball,” Jaworsky said.
Jaworsky first made contact with the Astros’ brass in March. Similar to other Houston draftees, those conversations delved more into the personal side and why he wanted to forgo his college commitment for professional baseball.
“I did see myself being an Astro, but there were other organizations knocking at the door,” Jaworsky said. “I’m extremely happy to be an Astro, and I’m extremely thankful that it worked out this way.”
Credit: Chase Jaworsky
Jaworsky is a 6-foot-2, 170-pound shortstop from Rock Canyon High School in Highland Ranch, Colorado. According to Perfect Game, the left-handed hitter ranked the sixth-best player in the state, slashing .444/.595/1.049 in his senior season.
The 18 year old tapped into a new level of power in his final high school season, connecting on 22 of his 30 hits for extra bases. He also walked 20 times and struck out six times in 112 plate appearances.
Jaworsky turned to the MLB Draft Combine in Arizona three weeks ago. He found more exposure as a smooth defender with plus speed.
Before he heads to Florida, Jaworsky plans to dedicate the next few days to his family and also hit the golf course with his friends.
“No words can describe how thankful I am,” Jaworsky said. “They’ve always been in my corner, supporting everything little thing I’ve ever done, and I’m extremely appreciative.”
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