Former Santa Barbara High star Derek True has officially signed a contract with the Houston Astros after he was drafted in the 18th Round of the 2023 MLB Draft.
“It’s awesome being able to come into an organization that has had so much success not only in the major leagues but also with their minor league player development,” True said. “I’m excited to be able to learn and develop my game to another level.”
True’s contract with the 2022 World Series Champions included a signing bonus of $100,000. The right-hander announced his signing on his Instagram account on Tuesday.
“There has been a lot of hard work to get me here,” True said. “But now the real hard work starts if I want to stay here and be able to compete at the highest level.”
After a successful career as a Don that ended in a Channel League MVP in 2019, True pitched for Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo for four seasons, including the shortened 2020 year. He came out of the bullpen for the majority of his years, ending with an ERA of 5.17.
The righthander had his best season with the Mustangs in 2023, when he pitched 33 innings in relief, striking out 39 and logging a 4.09 ERA.
After the 2023 season came to a close, True announced that he was transferring to the University of Georgia to finish his college eligibility. However, he will forgo a final season in the SEC and jump straight into the minor league ranks.
According to True, the main factors that led to him committing to play for the Astros were the opportunity to be a part of a successful organization when it comes to player development and the fact that Cal Poly prepared him well for the next step.
“I felt I was ready to make the step to [professional baseball] after my career at Cal Poly… it prepared me for the next level of baseball,” True said.
True joined Cal Poly teammate Bryce Warrecker and San Marcos High’s Cole Schoenwetter as Santa Barbara area pitchers to be drafted and signed by major league clubs.
Warrecker, a 20th-round pick, signed with the New York Yankees, and Schoenwetter inked a contract with the Cincinnati Reds after being taken in the fourth round of the MLB Draft.
True, who was the 554th overall pick, will likely begin his career with the Astros’ Low-A affiliate for the 2024 season.
“I want to thank my family, friends and coaches for the support over all the years because without them I wouldn’t be able to be in the position I am today,” True said.