Chandler Newman was projected to be chosen in the first 10 rounds of the Major League Baseball draft, but wasn’t called through its first two days.
He didn’t have to wait long on Day 3, though, as the Cleveland Indians selected the Richmond Hill High School graduate in the 11th round Wednesday with the 334th overall pick.
“I was looking forward to top 10, but 11th round, I’m fine with it,” Newman said. “Just getting the opportunity to get drafted is a dream come true.”
Newman, a 6-foot-2, 175-pound right-hander, impressed scouts in pre-draft workouts by consistently throwing around 95 mph and reaching 97.
“We’re excited for him,” RHHS baseball coach Stacy Bennett said. “He’s worked hard for the last four years. He’s earned every bit of it.”
Newman said he has begun negotiations with the Indians. If the two sides agree, he will report to the Indians’ Rookie League team in Arizona.
He has college ball as an option, having signed to play at Georgia Southern University.
“He is going to excel in whatever he chooses to do,” Bennett said.
Newman described the first two days of the draft as stressful. Getting the phone call from the Indians was a “big relief,” he said.
Along with his blazing fastball, Newman throws a changeup and slider. His high-school coach is confident Newman has not only the skill, but also the work ethic to reach the major leagues.
“It has been an unbelievable ride,” he said. “In the end, it’s all worth it.”