June 8, 2016
Being drafted by a major league organization is one of the most memorable moments for a professional baseball player. What sets this moment apart from many others in a career is the fact that it marks the beginning of a dream that took a lot of hard work to achieve.
Reminiscing on their experiences during the Rule IV draft from a year ago; some of the members of the Blue Jays 2015 class highlighted what it meant to them to be selected by a big league organization.
RHP Jon Harris
Selected in the 1st round (29th overall) out of Missouri State University:
“Being drafted by Blue Jays was a speechless moment,” stated Harris. “When you hear your name called in the first round. It’s one of those moments that make you think is this really happening? It sinks in quickly and you’re ready to get to business.”
3B Carl Wise
Selected in the 4th round (122nd overall) out of the College of Charleston:
“My draft experience was pretty surreal,” explained Wise. “I had a pretty good idea where I was going to go. But to actually hear your name called is a blessing.”
SS JC Cardenas
Selected in the 6th round (182nd overall) out of Barry University:
“Being drafted was a fun experience,” said Cardenas. “It’s a good process to be able to go through. It’s fun going to do all of the workouts. You travel a lot and the actual draft process is nerve-whacking as you’re just out there waiting for a call. But it’s really fun all around.”
IF/OF Connor Panas
Selected in the 9th round (272nd overall) out of Canisius College:
“I’m from Toronto, so being picked by the Blue Jays was very surreal,” stated Panas. “Just growing up watching the Jays and idolizing those players made it feel unreal. But It was definitely one of the best days of my life. Knowing I was going to play professional baseball for the team I grew up watching was special.”
C Ryan Hissey
Selected in the 14th round (422nd overall) out of William & Mary:
“My draft experience was fun,” stated Hissey. “I had all of my family together. I had my girlfriend and some friends down for the experience. It’s a long process. But once the Blue Jays picked me I was excited and ready to get started.”
LHP Tayler Saucedo
Selected in the 21st round (632nd overall) out of Tennessee Wesleyan College:
“My agent told me where I was slotted so I wasn’t too surprised where I was selected,” explained Saucedo. “It was a really fun experience with family and friends. When my name got called it was a dream come true. I didn’t take the opportunity for granted.”
RHP Josh DeGraaf
Selected in the 31st round (932nd overall) out of Taylor University:
“I know it sounds cliché but being drafted by the Blue Jays was a dream come true and to find out how great of an organization this is has been a total blessing,” stated DeGraaf. “I’m grateful for the opportunity every day.”
OF Andrew Guillotte
Selected in the 32nd round (962nd overall) out of McNeese State University:
“My draft experience was unexpected,” explained Guillotte. “I was hoping for a shot, but it was unexpected. I’ve had awesome support from family, friends, and others who have been through the process. It’s been really good.”