SerpApi.Org
It was never a matter of if Eric Becker would become a pro baseball player. But when.
The former Don Bosco Prep star shortstop was selected 58th overall by the Cincinnati Reds in the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft on July 11.
Ten days later, Decker signed for a $1.65 million bonus, according to Baseball America’s Carlos Collazo. That is $12,300 above slot value for the 58th pick.
Becker, drafted in the second round out of the University of Virginia, was the third New Jersey player picked in the draft. Ranney alum AJ Gracia and Egg Harbor grad Cameron Flukey both went in the first.
Gracia was Becker’s teammate at Virginia this year. Flukey was taken out of Coastal Carolina.
Becker has long been known as a polished shortstop. His left-handed swing is considered one of the best in the draft and with a 6-foot-3 frame, Becker is able to hit the ball into the outfield gaps with power.
Becker hit 46 doubles, 24 home runs, and five triples in 141 games at Virginia. He batted .348.
In high school, he had 40 hits, nine doubles, four home runs, four doubles and 19 walks as a senior. Becker helped lead Don Bosco Prep to a Bergen County title and Non-Public A championship. He was a 2nd Team All-State selection in 2023.
Becker’s younger brother Nick was selected 57th overall in the second round last year by the Seattle Mariners directly out of Don Bosco Prep.
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