Already boasting what many believe is the top rated farm system, the Los Angeles Dodgers were in strong position to add talent to the organization through the 2016 Major League Baseball Draft. The Dodgers held three selections in the top 36 picks, and four of the first 65.
What’s more, their $9,336,500 bonus pool this year is the largest total the Dodgers have had at their disposal since the current system was put in place in 2012. In reality, Los Angeles can spend up to $9,803,324 to sign their selections from the 2016 MLB Draft.
The wiggle room comes from clubs being able to exceed their bonus pool allotment by 4.99 percent or less and only face a tax penalty on the overage.
Prior to the draft concluding on Saturday, the Dodgers reportedly agreed to terms with third-round pick Dustin May on an above-slot $1 million bonus.
Per the Glendora High School baseball Twitter account, the Dodgers have also signed fourth-round pick D.J. Peters:
Dreams do come true!!! DJ is a Dodger! A new and exciting journey begins! #TartanPride @Dodgers @8Peters pic.twitter.com/dKlWoqzSCQ
— Glendora Baseball (@GlendoraBasebal) June 11, 2016
Selected 131st overall, Peters’ slot value is $442,400. He spent the past two seasons playing at Western Nevada College and was committed to transfer to California State University, Fullerton. The outfielder batted .419/.510/.734 with 14 doubles and 16 home runs in 2016.
Peters was previously selected out of high school by the Chicago Cubs in the 36th round of the 2014 Draft, and again in the 36th round by the Texas Rangers in 2015 after one season at Western Nevada College.
The Dodgers have not yet announced any signings of their 2016 Draft picks.
