Virginia's Matt Thaiss makes some noise in Minor League debut

Just weeks ago, Matt Theiss walked off Davenport Field for the final time in a Virginia Cavaliers uniform after a disappointing exit in the regional round of the NCAA Tournament.  But the baseball calendar is a whirlwind.  Days later, Thaiss was selected by the Los Angeles Angels with the 16th overall pick in the 16th overall pick in the MLB draft. And last night, he made his professional debut. It went well.

Playing for the Orem Owlz (that's not a typo), the Angels' short-season A affiliate in the Pioneer league, Thaiss went 3 for 5 with two doubles and a three-run home run.

Thaiss's first professional homer came in the top of the 9th inning of a 4-4 game, giving the Owlz a lead they would hold on to. And it came after an intentional walk to the hitter before him. Here's video:

Matt Thaiss, the No. 16 pick in the 2016 MLB draft, hits 3-run HR in T9. @OremOwlz now lead #Chukars 7-4. https://t.co/kBnIVLycky

— Victor Flores (@VictorFlores_IF) June 22, 2016

We'll see how long he sticks around in Orem, Utah, or if he moves up through the system, perhaps to High A, by the end of the year. At any rate, the Owlz are grateful to have him:

Dear @Angels,

Thanks for sending Matt Thaiss to us.

Sincerely,
The Owlz

RECAP: https://t.co/YwzxM1pW6t

— Orem Owlz (@OremOwlz) June 22, 2016