The 2024 MLB draft was mostly kind to the Florida Gators, but incoming freshman right-hander Jayden Dubanewicz became the second signee to turn pro on Thursday.
Dubanewicz signed a deal with the Milwaukee Brewers worth $665,000 in bonuses, plus a $2,500 contingency bonus that doesn’t count against the pool.
“This is an absolute dream come true,” Dubanewicz said to Gators Wire. “I wouldn’t be anywhere near this (opportunity) without the constant support of my parents and coaches along the way; however, this is just the start!”
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A dominant high school career
Dubanewicz earned three varsity letters at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School and was a key piece of the starting rotation that won two of four straight state championships.
He ends his high school career with a 21-2 record and a 1.31 ERA over 29 appearances (21 starts). Dubanewicz struck out 146 and walked just 31 over 123 complete innings.
His 0.76 career WHIP is a school record (since 2013) — besting current Miami Marlins pitcher Jesus Luzardo and three current/former Gators (Chris Arroyo, Jake Clemente and Christian Rodriguez).
Florida or the pros?
Dubanewicz committed to the University of Florida on July 25, 2022 and had long anticipated playing for the Gators. Major league scouts showed an increased interest in the projectable right-hander as he threw more quality innings over the spring, and he was a scout’s request invite at the FACA All-Star Game.
Still, prying Dubanewicz away from an SEC commitment was no easy task. Things were still “50-50” less than 24 hours from the deadline, but a deal came together overnight. Dubanewicz spent the summer in Gainesville, making the decision that much more difficult.
“It was by far one of the hardest decisions I had to make,” Dubanewicz said of his decision to forgo the college experience. “UF is one of the best, if not the best, programs there is, but I knew I wanted to start my pro career.”
What’s next for Dubanewicz?
With complex league play over, Dubanewicz won’t pitch in the Brewers’ organization until next year. He will still report to rookie ball to get acclimated to his new environment and will continue his development in a fall instructional league.
Dubanewicz features a 91-93 mph fastball that has topped out at 94 mph, a low-80s slider with sweeping action and an 82-84 mph changeup with good run. He is 6-foot-3-inches tall with room to grow and a projectable frame — long arms and legs.
Stoneman Douglas pitching coach Michael Cimilluca described “Duby” as “a true competitor that goes right at hitters.” He expects the 18-year-old to add velocity as his body matures and puts on more muscle.
A year ago, signing a pro deal was simply a hope for Dubanewicz, who was just stepping into the ace role for one of the nation’s top high school baseball programs. Now that dream is a reality for Dubanewicz, and he’s ready to put in the work needed to move up the chain.
“The Brewers are getting a workhorse,” he said. “I am ready for everything that comes my way, and I am dedicating myself to getting better. I know the Brewers are good at developing starting pitching, which fits perfectly.”
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