The Yankees have brought in another undrafted free agent following the MLB Draft, with BYU pitcher Jarod Lessar signing the $20,000 deal with New York, per The Deseret News.
Lessar, who grew up in Price, Utah, was a Yankee fan growing up, so it seemed fitting that when they called he said yes. He was also getting looks from the Astros, Angels and Orioles.
"I hung up the phone and I was overwhelmed with a sense of joy and gratitude," Lessar said, adding that it took him "about two minutes" to accept their offer.
Since the this year's draft was shortened to just five rounds, teams were allowed to sign whomever they wanted once it was completed to a $20,000 deal. The Yankees already signed Kentucky pitcher Carson Coleman as well.
Last season, Lessar owned a 4.44 ERA over 19 games (seven starts) with 48.2 innings pitched and 44 strikeouts to 16 walks. It seemed he was going to be more of a starter in 2020 with four starts of his first five games, but the coronavirus pandemic cut that short. He had a 4.96 ERA over 16.1 innings.
Lessar could've returned to the Cougars to re-do his senior season next year, but he's going to pursue his dream of playing pro ball, something head coach Mike Littlewood respects.
"I couldn't be happier for Jarod," he said. "He is such a great example of how hard work and dedication to your craft pays off."
More undrafted free agents may come up later on, as there are still loads of good prospects on the market.
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