It was a long time coming, but according to reports, that Jays have signed their first-round pick Deck McGuire to a $2 million contract.

McGuire, who has drawn comparisons to Red Sox pitcher John Lackey, was a standout pitcher for Georgia Tech in college. At 6’6″, 225 lbs, he already has a MLB-ready body, now it’s time to harness his ability and learn some control.

Deck is regarded as a solid mid-range starter, probably more of a No. 3 or 4, but many scouts think he’s a safe pick. Well, Jays fans thought otherwise, as he had us waiting with baited breath as the deadline approached.

Right now McGuire features a 94 mph fastball, but scouts say there is little to no movement or sink on it. His best pitch is an 81 mph changeup that he used with regularity in college. With Bruce Walton as the pitching coach, I expect his changeup to be used early and often to opposing batters. He also throws a get-me-over curveball and a slider. The previous two pitches supposedly need a lot of work, but he has a chance to evolve into a good middle-of-the-rotation starter.

The Jays also inked INF Griffin Murphy and OF Sam Dyson to new deals as the deadline passed.

 

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