Georgia commit Erik Parker unlikely to sign MLB deal, will attend college

The Los Angeles Dodgers selected Georgia commit Erik Parker with the No. 460 overall pick in the 2024 MLB Draft. Per FSS Plus’ Joe Doyle, Parker and the Dodgers could not come to an agreement on a deal and he will play at Georgia in the 2025 campaign.

Parker played high school baseball at North Gwinnett High School (GA), where he was the No. 91 overall prospect and No. 25 shortstop in the 2024 recruiting cycle, according to Perfect Game.

North Gwinnett HS also produced Colorado Rockies outfielder Charlie Blackmon, Kansas City Royals second baseman Michael Massey and Los Angeles Angels pitcher Blake Wood. Additionally, North Gwinnett alumnus Corey Collins was selected in the sixth round of the MLB Draft this year.

Ahead of the MLB Draft, experts provided an in-depth analysis of Erik Parker’s game and made predictions for his future in the sport.

“Parker clocked a 6.39-second 60-yard dash at the 2023 Perfect Game National Showcase and uses his plus speed well on the bases and in the field,” MLB.com wrote. “His quick first step and long wingspan enable him to gobble up balls at shortstop, where he has the arm strength needed to make all the necessary throws. It’s possible that he could add significant muscle to his lean 6-foot-3 frame and perhaps outgrow shortstop, though scouts are confident he can remain at the position.

“After looking overmatched at the plate on the showcase circuit last summer, Parker has begun to gain some much-needed strength. His right-handed swing looks quicker this spring, though he’ll have to prove he can handle more advanced pitching. He has the bat speed and leverage to provide 15-20 homers per season if he’s able to make quality contact.”

Georgia baseball has a bright future ahead

The 2023 season was Georgia head coach Wes Johnson‘s first year at the helm of the program. He led the Bulldogs to a stunning 43-17 record and a 17-13 mark in conference play.

Georgia went 3-0 in the Athens Regional to advance to the NCAA Tournament’s super regionals. It was Georgia’s first time advancing past the regional round since 2008. Georgia was unable to replicate its success in the next round of the tournament, falling to NC State in a season-ending effort.

Johnson was rewarded for his standout debut campaign with Georgia. After starting off in Athens earning $700,000 annually, Johnson’s pay increased to $1,000,000 starting July 1, according to an open records request obtained by DawgsHQ.