New York Yankees sign former South Carolina baseball star to first MLB contract

The 2024 MLB Draft has come and gone, and three current Gamecocks (catcher Cole Messina, right-handed pitcher Eli Jones, and left-handed pitcher Garrett Gainey), two high school signees (outfielder PJ Morlando and right-handed pitcher Carson Messina), and one junior college signee (left-handed pitcher Brandon Clarke) all were taken.

On Thursday night, the first undrafted Gamecock signed a pro contract as the New York Yankees inked right-handed relief pitcher Chris Veach to a deal.

Veach, who is heavily reliant on his change-up, offers an unorthodox approach to bullpen work. His change-up is his best pitch, but he has more in the tank with his fastball and slider than he often demonstrated with the Gamecocks.

A Columbia-area native from Chapin and Chapin High School, Veach began his college career as a two-way player with the Presbyterian Blue Hose before hitting the transfer portal and finding himself in garnet and black ahead of the 2023 season. While he came to Columbia still as a player who could pitch or play the infield, he primarily worked as a reliever for the Gamecocks over the past two years.

During his time with the South Carolina baseball program, Chris Veach was one of the top relievers in the SEC. Compiling a 7-3 record and 9 saves, he made 46 appearances on the mound for USC, and despite being asked to fill a number of roles out of the 'pen, he logged an ERA of 3.63 or better in both of his seasons at Carolina. Veach struck out 86 batters in 70 2/3 innings and only gave up 49 total hits. Facing off against 298 opposing hitters, Veach surrendered just 5 home runs.

There are sure to be a few more Gamecocks who sign free agent contracts before this summer ends, but for now, Chris Veach is the lone South Carolina baseball alum to sign a contract after this year's draft.