Austin Barr Drafted by New York Mets; Rejects Offer and Plans to Play for Stanford University This Fall; Has Sights on Future MLB in 2015

A funny thing happened Wednesday during third period at Camas High School.

Senior Austin Barr received a phone call from New York Mets talent scout, Jim Reeves, offering him a spot with the major league franchise. Barr was picked in the 29^th round, 12 pick, and 890 overall. It was an honor, but not what Barr was looking for.

Although most kids would love a shot at making $100,000 right of school, this Stanford University-bound catcher is looking at the big picture. He’s being patient, and continues to work extremely hard.

Over the last several months, MLB talent scouts have been keep close tabs on Barr, getting to know him, his family, his temperament, and of course, his baseball skills. The Mets, Orioles and Marlins have all had their eyes on Barr, but it was with the Mets where serious talks ensued.

In the beginning, nearly a year ago, Barr told the scouts what he would sign for. Top picks receive $7.2 million, and the offers go to $1.8 million for the first rounds. After the tenth round, players are offered a maximum of $100,000.

“They knew I wouldn’t sign for $100,000,” Barr said. “This was done as a sign of respect to me. They wanted me to be able to say I was drafted by the Mets, and I really appreciate the offer. It’s been a great experience.”

The MLB pro’s started watching him last August as Barr became part of a Royal’s-sponsored tournament team that represented the Pacific Northwest in Long Beach, California.

“We played with the best guys around and they watched us intently,” said Barr. “And I caught really well. Then all winter, I talked to the scouts to do personality tests. I went to countless workouts, and I learned it’s all about developing a relationship with the scouts. And I learned it’s a lot of fun and it’s been like planning two futures – one at Stanford, and one with Major League baseball.”

The experience will serve him well, as Barr plans to succeed at Stanford by continuing to improve his game and study business management, finance or engineering.

He reports to Stanford on September 18 and will meet his dorm roommate upon arrival.

“I really look forward to attending Stanford,” he said. “It’s been a lifelong dream. And the cool thing is in three years I’ll do it all over again. The whole process will start over again when I re-enter the draft. And next time, I want to go first round.”

Barr’s immediate future is to graduate from Camas High on June 15 and then travel with the Corvallis Knights. He’s already off to a good start – hitting a grand slam in Walla Walla last week.

His next game with them is on June 18 in Longview.

“He’s doing very well,” said his father, Gregg Barr. “He’s like a little kid playing baseball. He’s having so much fun. Recently, an opposing pitcher gave Austin credit for the way he’s calling the game. This whole experience has been a lot of fun.”

The younger Barr is grateful for the coaches, teachers and mentors throughout the years.

“I’ve learned a ton these last few months,” Barr said. “I appreciate the relationships I was able to build. I’ve learned how the MLB works, and that not all the guys are making millions. There’s a long road to the Major leagues, and this has given me a new respect. You have to prove yourself and be consistently good for several years.”

Barr also gives high value to his education and hopes to come out in a better position three years from now.

“Baseball doesn’t have to control your life but your success is a product of hard work and a person’s work ethic,” he concluded.

Look out for Barr. He’s just getting warmed up.