Crestview's Dean hopes to make signing decision soon

By ADAM PRUIETT

Northwest Florida Daily News
315-4421 | adamp@nwfdailynews.com

Blake Dean doesn't intend to leave LSU baseball fans hanging with the question of "will he stay or will he go" for very long.

In fact, the former Crestview standout said Friday that he expects to make his decision on whether he will return to LSU for his senior season or sign a contract with the Minnesota Twins "in the next week or so."

"I'm going to get it over quick," said Dean, who was drafted in the 10th round by the Twins.

Dean, who helped the Tigers clinch a College World Series title on Wednesday, said the Twins have corresponded with him through text messages. He expects a phone conversation to take place soon.

Dean said he doesn't have an exact figure in mind that would persuade him to sign. But he did say that he balked when the Philadelphia Phillies offered him a $140,000 signing bonus if they chose him in the fourth round.

"Honestly, I don't know," Dean said of his asking price. "Whatever (the Twins) throw at me, I'll decide what I'm going to do.

"If it's not substantially more than that," he said, referring to the Phillies' offer, "I don't see myself leaving."

By staying at LSU, Dean could boost his draft stock for next year. LSU coach Paul Mainieri has promised him that he'll be a position player next season as opposed to primarily being a designated hitter. One of the concerns about Dean heading into the draft was that clubs weren't sure about his fielding ability because he's mostly used as a DH.

"That would be big," Dean said of playing a position, which would likely be first base or in the outfield. "I don't think I'd have a desire or purpose to come back if I DH again."

Indeed, Dean has seemingly shown scouts enough about his bat. His career batting average at LSU is .338 along with 44 homers, 48 doubles and 190 RBIs.

If the Twins don't make his son a satisfying offer, Mike Dean believes there will be a perfect alternative.

"I think if he comes back next year, he'll go high in the draft and win another national championship," Mike said.

Dean is expecting to travel back home to Crestview soon to relax and spend time with family and friends.

"Then I'll finalize things, make a decision and see where I go from there," he said.

Winning one championship after another all the way to the CWS crown and getting selected in the major league draft has made for a memorable month for Dean. He knows he's been blessed and appreciates it.

"A lot of people don't get the opportunities I've gotten," he said, "so I don't want to take them for granted."