Bring on big leagues

As I write this, former Greenbrier High School star and University of Georgia All-American Rich Poythress is headed to the great Northwest.

//

In June, the first baseman was selected by the Seattle Mariners as the 51st overall pick in the baseball draft, and earlier this week the two sides came to terms on a contract.

The terms of the deal have not been disclosed, but it is thought that the deal included a signing bonus in the high six figures. Also, the Mariners broke down Poythress' signing bonus over four years, saving him quite a bit in taxes.

Poythress and his parents were flown out to Seattle a few days ago, and after a few days with the Mariners, Poythress will head to Arizona for a few days in rookie ball just to get some work in before he begins his pro career in Class AA.

It was thought that Poythress would begin at Class A Clinton in Iowa, but the Mariners surprised even Poythress by telling him he would report to the West Tenn Diamond Jaxx after a brief stop in Arizona. The Diamond Jaxx have several talented prospects, including Poythress' former Georgia teammate and a 2008 first-round pick, Josh Fields.

All the hard work, time in the cage and overall dedication has paid off. Now Poythress must start a new chapter in his life as a pro ball player.