NEW YORK — The Cubs hope they’ve drafted a Great One.
Trevor Gretzky, the baseball-playing son of hockey Hall of Famer Wayne Gretzky, was selected in the seventh round Tuesday during the second day of the amateur draft.
The younger Gretzky knocks in runs — not goals — as a left-handed, power-hitting California high school first baseman. And the jersey number he wore? Well, No. 99, of course.
He has a commitment to San Diego State, where he could play for Hall of Famer Tony Gwynn if he chooses not to sign with Chicago.
The Cubs also took a name from their past, drafting California high school outfielder Shawon Dunston Jr. in the 11th round. Shawon Sr. was the No. 1 overall pick by Chicago in 1982 and the shortstop played 18 big-league seasons.
The sons of Ivan Rodriguez (Dereck), Steve Garvey (Ryan) and Kevin Seitzer (Cameron) were among the familiar names called Tuesday. Also in that crowd, Eddie Gaedel’s great-nephew, who is 6-foot-3 — unlike his 3-foot-7 great-uncle, who drew a walk in one of baseball’s most famous publicity stunts, wearing ” 1/8″ on his jersey 60 years ago. Valparaiso outfielder Kyle Gaedele — his last name has an extra “e” — was a Padres’ sixth-round pick.
Also drafted were Bryce Harper’s brother, South Carolina lefty Bryan Harper; Georgia high school shortstop Deion Williams, grandson of former big-leaguer George Scott; Arizona State outfielder Johnny Ruettiger, whose uncle is former Notre Dame football walk-on Rudy Ruettiger; and Arkansas-Little Rock right-hander Travis Henke, son of former closer Tom Henke.
And then there’s Trent Boras, a California high school third baseman selected by the Brewers in the 30th round. He’s better known as the son of agent Scott Boras. Good luck with those negotiations.
