Blue Jays sign fifth round selection Lane Thomas over slot

The Toronto Blue Jays announced today that they have signed their fifth round selection from this year’s draft, outfielder Lane Thomas.

Jim Callis of MLB.com tweets that Thomas signed for $750,000, which is more than double the recommended slot value of $343,000 for the 144th overall pick.

I’ve been working on a draft recap that I may never finish but there’s a lot to like about Thomas. He possesses good all around tools and could develop into an exciting prospect. According to MLB.com’s Draft Tracker Thomas has a quick bat and shows an advanced approach at the plate for a high schooler. At 6’1, he hasn’t yet filled out and should grow into more power. He already is known for making consistent hard contact. Above average speed gives him plus range in the outfield and also makes him a threat on the basepath. His arm strength is also considered above average.

The “five-tool” label probably gets thrown around a bit more than it should but I could see Thomas eventually turning into a player with average or better tools across the board. He earns rave reviews for his makeup and work ethic, which should give him a better chance to reach his lofty ceiling.

Thomas is the third signing for this year’s draft that I have heard about and joins high school catcher Matt Morgan and University of Florida right-hander Justin Shafer who both signed on Sunday.

I’m assuming Thomas will be assigned to the Gulf Coast League Blue Jays when league play opens June 20, 2014.