Athletic DeShields Has Major League Pedigree

High school infielder son of former big leaguer

HOUSTON -- Delino DeShields Jr. already has a goal to be in the Major Leagues in just 2 1/2 years, which may seem kind of lofty for a 17-year-old who just graduated from high school. But if the old man was able to do it, the competition begins.

DeShields Jr., the son of long-time Major Leaguer Delino DeShields Sr., was the first of three players the Astros selected in Monday's First-Year Player Draft. He's a speed-to-burn outfielder out of Woodward Academy in College Park, Ga., who will make the transition to second base.

"We've got this competition thing going on right now," DeShields Jr. said. "Me, personally, I want to make it in less than two years. I'm just grateful if I make it in four or five years. I'm just happy for the opportunity and want to see where it takes me."

The Astros chose DeShields Jr. with the No. 8 overall pick in the Draft, their highest since picking Phil Nevin with the No. 1 overall selection in 1992. The club chose high school power pitcher Mike Foltynewicz at No. 19 and University of Minnesota third baseman Mike Kvasnicka at No. 33.

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