Sonoraville High School graduate Griffin Long has taken the next step in his baseball career after being selected by the Tampa Bay Rays in the eighth round of the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft.
Long, a standout pitcher for the Phoenix, capped off an impressive high school career by earning selection in one of baseball’s most prestigious annual events. The right-hander established himself as one of Northwest Georgia’s top players during his time at Sonoraville, drawing attention from scouts with his performances on the mound.
Earlier this year, Long was named the Region 7-AA Player of the Year, an honor recognizing his outstanding contributions during the 2026 high school baseball season. His dominant pitching and leadership helped make him one of the premier players in the region and solidified his status as a professional prospect.
Being selected by the Rays marks a significant milestone for Long and adds another accomplished athlete to Sonoraville High School’s baseball tradition. The Tampa Bay organization has earned a reputation for developing young talent, and Long will now have the opportunity to begin his professional career within one of Major League Baseball’s most respected farm systems.
Sonoraville High School celebrated Long’s accomplishment, congratulating the 2026 graduate on being drafted and recognizing the hard work and dedication that led to his selection.
Long now faces the decision of beginning his professional baseball career with the Rays organization as he pursues his dream of one day reaching the major leagues.