The first fourth-generation MLB player could make his career in Washington after Jake Boone-the son, nephew, grandson and great-grandson of former players-signed with the Nationals on Saturday as an undrafted free agent.
Boone's father, Bret, played in the majors from 1992 to 2005. His uncle, Aaron, played from 1997 to 2009 and currently manages the New York Yankees. Bret and Aaron's father Bob and grandfather Ray played for 18 and 12 years, respectively. Ray started the family dynasty in 1948, when he made his MLB debut as a shortstop for the Cleveland Indians.
Jake, a shortstop himself, was originally selected by the Nationals in the 38th round of the 2017 MLB Draft. He instead elected to honor his commitment to Princeton, where he played a total of 72 games and hit .250 with one home run and 24 RBIs. Bob, who is 72 years old, is a vice president of player development for the Nationals and senior advisor to GM Mike Rizzo.
With the 2020 MLB Draft being shortened to five rounds as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, Jake didn't have the chance to find out if he improved his draft stock enough to earn a higher selection. But after the rules were amended to allow for an increased number of undrafted signees, he will have the opportunity to follow in his family's footsteps and get a Boone back on a major-league roster for the first time since Aaron retired in 2009.
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Nationals sign Jake Boone, who could be MLB's first fourth-generation player originally appeared on NBC Sports Washington
