The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially signed their first-round draft pick, Kellon Lindsey, a talented shortstop from Hardee High School in Florida, with a reported bonus of $3.3 million. Lindsey impressed in his senior year, hitting .403 with a .567 on-base percentage and .597 slugging percentage in 25 games, while also exceling as a quarterback on the school’s football team.
The Dodgers selected Lindsey 23rd overall, and he had previously committed to playing for the University of Florida. Billy Gasparino, the Dodgers’ vice president of baseball operations, praised Lindsey’s exceptional athleticism, work ethic, and potential to become a prototypical Dodger player.
Notably, Lindsey’s bonus is the second-largest ever given by the Dodgers to a draft pick, surpassed only by Zach Lee’s $5.25 million in 2010. The Dodgers have also signed several other draft picks, including Kole Myers and Seamus Barrett, who received significantly lower bonuses due to their college senior status.
The Dodgers have a total bonus pool of $6,114,700, the second-lowest among MLB teams this season. With their current signings, they have saved $736,700 under the recommended slot value, allowing for potential over-slot deals for other draft picks. The team has until August 1 to finalize signings, and they have historically spent up to five percent over their bonus pool without incurring severe penalties.
