MLB draft pick Donny Diaz will come to Texas, not sign with Boston Red Sox

Texas’ bullpen just got a lot deeper.

Donny Diaz, a 23rd round draft pick to the Boston Red Sox, announced on Twitter Monday evening that he has elected to play for the Longhorns next season rather than sign a pro contract.

Diaz will be a junior at Texas after two seasons at San Jacinto College.

In 30.1 innings pitched as a closer at San Jac in 2017, Diaz threw 60 strikeouts and honed a 2.08 ERA. He also accumulated three wins and seven saves in his 23 appearances.

The righty was nearly as dominant as a freshman, when he notched a 1.85 ERA and 36 strikeouts in 24.1 innings.

The 6-1, 230 pounder is known for his deadly slider. He also throws a deep breaking curveball and has a change up in his repertoire as well. His fastball touches 95 miles per hour.

Expect Diaz to join Chase Shugart and Beau Ridgeway as Texas’ primary late inning reliever options. The trio could be one of the best stopper units in the nation.

The addition of Diaz could also open up the possibility Ridgeway or Shugart trying out as starters, as Texas’ weekend starter options are slim.

Out of the 15 Longhorn commits and signees drafted to the MLB, Diaz is the only player so far to pick going to Texas over heading to the pros. The ‘Horns are still waiting on the decision of high school signee Tristen Lutz, who was drafted No.34 overall by the Brewers. The deadline for draftees to sign is July 7.