Pueblo West's Dabovich drafted by Giants

Former Pueblo West baseball standout R.J. Dabovich was selected in the fourth round (114th overall) of the 2020 MLB Draft by the San Francisco Giants Thursday night.

Previously taken by the Kansas City Royals in the 18th round back in 2018, the 6-foot-3 pitcher chose not to sign and decided to attend Arizona State instead. It paid off.

"I've been thinking about this moment since I was four-years-old, happened two years ago to the Royals but it just didn't fit right with me and my family," Dabovich said. "To get another opportunity to fulfill my dream is a dream come true and I'm ready to go."

The Sun Devils reliever had a strong start to his junior season, recording four saves and 0.77 ERA in 11 2/3 innings in the shortened campaign.

Featuring a mid-90's fastball and strong breaking pitches, the Pueblo native is excited to continue his career at the pro level and represent the Cyclones.

"It's huge, I've gotten plenty of texts from people in that area, and just having that support behind me is a huge motivation to push harder and make the big leagues," Dabovich said. "Being one of the first draft picks especially from Pueblo West makes me humble, makes me proud. That I can put on for my city and put that name on the map."

With minor league baseball's season in jeopardy, Dabovich will wait for instructions as to whether he'll report to a team or continue to train and join a Giants affiliate for the 2021 season.