Will Craig Drafted 22nd Overall by Pirates
6/9/2016 12:00:00 AM | Baseball
Wake Forest Athletic Communications (@WakeBaseball)
NEW YORK -- Wake Forest junior Will Craig was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates with the 22nd overall pick in the first round of the 2016 Major League Baseball Draft on Thursday night.
He becomes the sixth-ever first-round pick out of Wake Forest, including the first since 2008 and highest since 2006.
"I would love to thank all the Wake Forest coaches and staff members who helped me get where I am today. Without them, I wouldn't be able to enjoy today nearly as much," Craig said. "I want to thank my teammates for being there with me through the ups and downs and always pushing me to be my best, and I would love to thank my parents who have supported me my whole life and have always put my wants and needs before their own."
A first team All-American each of the last two years, Craig has racked up a career average of .347 with 42 doubles, 37 homers, 160 RBIs and 108 walks through three seasons. He has started more than 50 games all three years, and wrapped up this season with a .379 average, 16 longballs and 66 RBIs.
Craig has also excelled on the mound, holding a 6-4 career record. This year out of the pen, he went 2-0 with a team-high nine saves and a 3.54 ERA.
"We couldn't be happier for Will," head coach Tom Walter said. "He turned down a decent-sized signing bonus out of high school because he believed in himself. It's good to see that be rewarded, and we know he has an incredible future ahead of him."
The draft continues with rounds 3-10 on Friday and 11-40 on Saturday, with several more Demon Deacons expected to be picked.
Underclassmen who are picked have until July 15 to sign a professional contract, or decide to return to school.
