4th round pick B.J. Hyatt:
Hyatt never put up great numbers as far as pitching statistics go in his two years with the University of South Carolina Sumter. However, the right-hander was able to present these intangible numbers — 6 feet, 4 inches tall, 205 pounds and pitches that consistently hit 93-94 miles per hour on a speed gun — to cause Major League Baseball scouts to salivate.
Head coach Tom Fleenor, on whether the Astros drafted Hyatt on potential:
“That’s pretty much hitting the nail on the head,” said USC Sumter head coach Tom Fleenor. “If anybody can reach it it’s BJ because of his tremendous work ethic. I’m just happy that BJ is getting this opportunity.”
Hyatt:
"I’m real excited. I’m ready to get everything taken care of and start working. It will definitely be easier because all I’ll be worrying about is baseball. I won’t have to be concerned with classes. I’ll be working with professional coaches who will help me develop my skills."
On signing:
Hyatt said representatives from the Astros are supposed to be in Greenville today to negotiate a contract. He said it would take a major roadblock for him not to come to terms.
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
