Three Savannah High School baseball stars were drafted into MLB, turning local talent into pro potential. On July 14, social media announced that three local Savannah, Georgia, area standouts were chosen in the 2025 MLB Draft. First, Richmond Hill High School's ('22) Leighton Finley was selected in the 6th round (178th overall) by the Boston Red Sox. Next, Benedictine Military School ('22) Justin Thomas Jr. went in the 11th round (336th overall) to the Houston Astros. Rounding out the group, Ely Brown from Savannah Christian ('23) was taken in the 12th round (346th overall) by the Chicago White Sox.
Leighton Finley (Richmond Hill → Georgia → Red Sox, 6th round):
Finley from Richmond Hill High School ('22) made 54 appearances (31 starts) through his junior year. He posted an 11-5 record with a 4.76 ERA over 172 innings, notching 190 strikeouts and recording five saves. Finley also earned SEC Academic Honor Roll recognition three times.
PHOTO: Former Wildcat Leighton Finley drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 6th round of the 2025 MLB Draft. Courtesy of Richmond Hill High Shcool Athletics Department X Account
Justin Thomas Jr. (Benedictine → Georgia→Florida Southwestern →Arkansas → Astros, 11th round):
Thomas was a standout athlete at Benedictine Military School ('22) and later played his freshman year at Georgia, participating in 25 games with eight starts. At Florida Southwestern, he had a strong season, batting .333 with nine home runs, 33 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases in 47 games. He transferred to Arkansas, where he hit .571 (8-for-14) and had three RBIs during the College World Series.
PHOTO: Justin Thomas Jr. selected by the Houston Astros in the 11th round of the 2025 MLB Draft. Courtesy of Benedictine Military School X Social Media Account.
Ely Brown (Savannah Christian → Mercer → White Sox, 12th round):
Brown from Savannah Christian ('23) ended his sophomore season at Mercer with a .320 batting average, adding three home runs, 32 RBIs, and 54 runs scored.
PHOTO: Ely Brown, former Savannah Christian standout, drafted by the Chicago White Sox in the 12th round of the 2025 MLB Draft. Courtesy of Mercer University Athletics
What's Next:
All three players will now have a chance to sign contracts with their MLB teams. After signing, they'll report to minor league teams to begin their pro careers. It's the first step toward their dream of playing in the major leagues. Local fans will be cheering them on every step of the way.
Photo Credit: Players Courtesy High School and College social medai pages.
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