Tyler Whitaker signs with Astros
HOUSTON (BVM) 鈥� The Houston Astros didn鈥檛 have a first or second-round pick in this year鈥檚 MLB Draft. So, when their turn to pick in the third round came, they came to a decision that could help shape their franchise for the future by selecting Bishop Gorman High School outfielder Tyler Whitaker with the No. 87 overall pick.聽
His last season with the Gaels saw him carry a batting average of .508, hit five home runs and register 32 RBIs. Whitaker did all of this in just 18 games. Performing at this level boosted Whitaker all the way to prospect list. Whitaker was also named Nevada鈥檚 Gatorade Baseball Player of the Year following the 2020-21 season.
And at the conclusion of the draft, the Astros made it a top priority to sign their third-round pick. And a week later, that鈥檚 exactly what happened.
The signed our first pick of the 2021 MLB Draft OF today. Welcome to Houston, Tyler! 馃
— Houston Astros (@astros)
Whitaker signed a $1.5 million contract, according to Jim Callis. It is more than double what the slot for the 87th pick was projected to be.聽
3rd-rder Tyler Whitaker signs w/ for $1.5 million (pick 87 value = $689,300). Nevada HS OF, began tapping into plus raw power this spring (same
Bishop Gorman HS as Joey Gallo), strong arm, moves well for 6-ft-4 guy. Arizona recruit.— Jim Callis (@jimcallisMLB)
Whitaker was on his way to paying at the University of Arizona this upcoming season but will instead begin his professional career. He鈥檒l begin in the Florida Complex League.
Let鈥檚 do this
— Tyler Whitaker (@twhitaker00)
