Long Island Native Jacob Steinmetz Makes History As First Orthodox Jewish Player To Be Drafted To MLB – CBS New York

(CBSNewYork)- With the 77th total choose within the 2021 MLB Draft, the Arizona Diamondbacks chosen Woodmere, Lengthy Island native Jacob Steinmetz out of Elev8 Academy in Delray Seaside, Florida. The choose made historical past because the 17-year-old Steinmetz is believed to be the primary Orthodox Jewish participant to be drafted.

Zach Braziller of the New York Post wrote about Steinmetz heading into the draft, noting that he retains the Sabbath and solely eats Kosher meals. He additionally follows the Sabbath by way of not using in a automotive, bus, prepare or airplane from sunset on Friday via sunset on Saturday. That has meant some logistical adjustments to his journey schedule throughout the season resembling arriving early to lodges inside strolling distance of the fields.

At 6’6″ 224 kilos, Steinmetz has the construct of a serious league pitcher already as a teen. He ranked because the 121st prospect on MLB.com’s board. The scouting report notes a plus fastball and curve as the largest weapons in his arsenal. Steinmetz is dedicated to play at Fordham so it stays to be seen whether or not he’ll signal with the Diamondbacks and begin his professional profession or head to the Bronx as an alternative.