Astros sign a former Rays' top prospect after his release from the White Sox

It's been a tough stretch of professional baseball for former Rays' top prospect, Greg Jones. The 27-year old infielder has played for three different organizations since he was drafted in 2019, but he's only appeared nine MLB games and accrued seven at-bats. Jones is now joining his fourth organization in seven seasons. Will this be his big break?

Middle infielder Greg Jones was originally drafted in the 17th round out of high school by the Baltimore Orioles. He decided not to accept the offer, as he followed his track of playing at the University of North Carolina Wilmington instead. It's certainly factual that he made the right decision as the switch-hitter made a name for himself in his two collegiate seasons. In his sophomore season, Jones led the Coastal Athletic Conference in multiple statistics including triples (9), OBP (.491), and stolen bases (42). The 6'0 shortstop also displayed some power with five home runs in 63 contests.

After Jones' sophomore campaign, the Rays drafted him with their first round pick. Jones and the Rays were equally thrilled about this opportunity as the immense talent and speed are exactly what the front office shops for on a regular basis. Jones began his Rays' journey on an impressive pace with only a few hiccups. It was looking like the North Carolina native could be on track to receive a call-up to the majors in a matter of only a few years.

However, it became apparent very quickly that this feat wouldn't very easy. In 2020, the No. 1 overall prospect Wander Franco and the Rays' No. 3 prospect Vidal Brujan were on a much straighter track to the big leagues, as Jones lingered in the minors, starting to falter in his play.

After missing most of the 2023 season with a hamstring injury, the Rays decided to trade Greg Jones to the Rockies for left-handed hurler Joe Rock. It seemed like a great opportunity for a young player seeking playing time, but Colorado didn't give him much of a chance. He was only allotted five at-bats, homering in his first at-bat and striking out in the other four. The White Sox claimed Jones during the 2025 spring training and gave him two more at-bats where he was held hit-less.

Astros sign Greg Jones to a minor league deal

After being released by the last-place White Sox, Jones has signed a minor league contract with the Houston Astros. Hopefully, he is given a well-deserved opportunity with this well-run organization