On Board: Tampa Bay Rays' Top Draft Pick Daniel Pierce Signs First Pro Contract
A Dream Landing Spot for Top Prospect
The wait is over for 18-year-old shortstop Daniel Pierce as he signs his first professional contract with the Tampa Bay Rays, a dream come true that caps off an exciting journey since being selected 14th overall in the 2025 MLB Draft.
- Signed for $4,313,100, one million dollars below slot value.
- The No. 14 pick said it's still sinking in what happened and he's excited to get started with his new team.
- Pierce was drafted by a team he hoped to join and praised the organization's approach to developing prospects.
A Rising Star
Daniel Pierce, selected out of Mill Creek High School in Georgia, brings an impressive set of skills to the table. He's been compared to All-Star shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. and was ranked as one of the top pure shortstops in the draft by MLB Pipeline.
Pierce has a strong bat, plus speed, solid defensive abilities, and good all-around tools that make him an exciting prospect for the Tampa Bay Rays organization.
A Future with the Rays
As he begins his professional journey, Pierce is already talking about how much he appreciates being part of the Rays' system. He praised their approach to developing young players, saying it's exactly what he wanted from a team.
The Rays were Pierce's top choice during his post-draft Zoom call with the media, and now that he's signed, he can focus on getting started in professional baseball.
The Next Chapter
With his first professional contract under his belt, Daniel Pierce is just months removed from graduating high school. He had committed to play college ball for Georgia before being drafted by the Tampa Bay Rays.
Pierce has a lot to look forward to as he starts this new chapter of his life and career with one of baseball's most respected organizations.
The signing of Daniel Pierce marks an important step for both him and the Tampa Bay Rays, signaling a bright future for the young shortstop and a promising addition to the team.