|
ERIC THOMAS, JR., CENTER FIELDER
|
| Born: March 30, 1995 Height: 5’10” Weight: 175 Bats: Switch Throws: Left Drafted: 21st Round, 641st Overall, 2014 How Acquired: Draft High School: Langham Creek HS (TX) Agent: N/A |
WTM’S PIRATE PLAYER PROFILES |
| Thomas is a small center fielder, drafted by the Pirates in the 21st round of the 2014 draft. He is on the old side for a high school draftee, turning 19 back in March. He was rated 283rd overall in this draft class by Baseball America and attracted a lot of attention due to a down year for baseball talent in Texas. He is one of the fastest players in this draft class, with some scouts giving him the top grade of 80 in speed. Thomas is a very athletic player who also took his turn on the mound and put up a 1.08 ERA in 51.2 innings. His offensive and defensive skills are considered weak at this point. His speed, which appears to be his only plus tool, makes up for mistakes in the field. Thomas led his HS team in strikeouts even though power is not part of his game. He had a commitment to Sam Houston State, but signed a week after the draft.
2014 Thomas played about half the time during his GCL debut, strictly in left field. He didn’t do much at the plate other than post a solid walk rate. He didn’t use his speed to great advantage, either. 2015 Thomas returned to the GCL, backing up in the outfield corners, and had nearly the exact same season as 2014. Thomas could go to Bristol in 2016, although he hasn’t made any progress so far. |
|
CONTRACT INFORMATION
|
| 2016: Minor League Contract |
|
PLAYER INFORMATION
|
| Signing Bonus: N/A MiLB Debut: 2014 MLB Debut: MiLB FA Eligible: 2020 MLB FA Eligible: Rule 5 Eligible: 2018 Added to 40-Man: Options Remaining: 3 MLB Service Time: 0.000 |
|
TRANSACTIONS
|
| June 7, 2014: Drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 21st round, 641st overall pick; signed on June 14. |
