Durango product Reynolds signs with Angels
Former Durango pitcher Danny Reynolds wasn’t certain he would sign a professional contract after being chosen by the Los Angeles Angels in the sixth round of baseball’s amateur draft on June 10.
He also had the option of fulfilling his college commitment to Dixie State (Utah).
But it appears the hard-throwing right-hander will get the best of both worlds.
Reynolds signed a five-year deal with the Angels on June 18. He said it included a $125,000 bonus and a promise from the Angels to pay for his future college education.
“That was the deal-maker right there,” Reynolds said of having his college paid for. “I get to fulfill my dream and they’ll pay for my college, so it’s the best of both worlds.
“I knew about the college plan from the MLB, but I didn’t know if I would get it.”
Reynolds was assigned June 21 to the Tempe (Ariz.) Angels at the Rookie League level, where he has yet to make his debut.
“It’s been great,” he said. “Everyone’s just taking me under their wing. It’s another step toward my dream.”
Tempe’s season runs through Aug. 29. Reynolds, whose fastball hovers around 95 mph, said the Angels envision him as a starter.
“I’m hoping in a week or so,” Reynolds said of when he expects to make his debut. “They’re trying to work some guys that are rehabbing and stuff.”
Reynolds was 4-6 with a 2.79 ERA and 73 strikeouts in 59 1/3 innings this season, helping the Trailblazers to an 11-5 Southwest League record. He also hit .438 with three home runs and 24 RBIs.
