MLB Draft 2016: Top prospect ruled ineligible over transfer

Gabrielle McMillen

MLB Draft 2016: Top prospect ruled ineligible over transfer image

The projected top draft pick in the upcoming MLB draft has been ruled ineligible and his statistics from the past two weeks will be erased, NJ.com reported.

Pitcher Jason Groome of Barnegat High School in New Jersey was found in violation of the state's transfer rules. The school must now vacate all wins in which Groome played in this season, including Monday night's victory in which Groome had 19 strikeouts in a no-hitter.

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Groome, 17, played at IMG Academy in Florida last year before moving back to New Jersey to finish his senior year with friends. According to the New Jersey Interscholastic Athletic Association bylaws, Groome's move back to Barnegat from IMG did not fit the parameters of the bylaws, which means he will have to sit out 30 days or half the season's games before he will be allowed to play again.

A 6-5 left-hander who throws in the mid-90s with a sharp-breaking curveball, Groome had pitched 11 innings this season, striking out 29 and allowing one hit, according to The Press of Atlantic City, which added that more than 100 MLB scouts have watched him throw this season.

The Press also reported that Phillies GM Matt Klentak, whose team has the No. 1 pick in the June 9 MLB Draft, watched Groome's first start at Barnegat on April 5.

Groome will be eligible for Barnegat's 12th game or on May 1, whichever comes first.

Gabrielle McMillen