D-backs agree to deal with top pick Bryce Jarvis

June 30th, 2020

PHOENIX -- The D-backs announced the signing of this year’s first-round pick, Bryce Jarvis, just in time to include the former Duke right-hander on their initial 60-man summer camp roster.

Jarvis, who was selected with the No. 18 overall pick, signed for $2.65 million, which was under the slot value for the pick of $3.48 million.

Jarvis’ father, Kevin, pitched in the Majors for 10 teams over 12 years, including making five appearances (one start) for the D-backs in 2006. He also served as a scout for the D-backs after his playing career ended.

Bryce Jarvis had a great start to his junior year as he authored the first perfect game in the 131-year history of Duke University baseball on Feb. 21 against Cornell, collecting a career-high 15 strikeouts while throwing just 94 pitches.

While it’s unlikely he will see time in the big leagues this year, the D-backs will endeavor to get him as much work as they can on the mound over the next few months considering he only got to make four starts before the college baseball season was shut down in March.

“We’re going to try to build up innings any way we can,” D-backs GM Mike Hazen said, referring to the organization’s young pitchers like Jarvis. “I would be the first to say that I don’t think sim games or live BP, those types of innings, I don’t think you’re going to get the same adrenaline rush, competition factor or stresses that you’ll get in the game. but we’re going to do what we’ve got to do with the hand we’re dealt.”