Ryan Deemes pitching for the Corpus Christi Hooks, the AA affiliate of the Houston Astros, in 2016.
Ryan Deemes was drafted by the Houston Astros in the 36th round of the 2015 MLB Draft from Nicholls State University. Deemes played for three MiLB seasons in the Astros organization, reaching AA. He most recent appearance was in the Can-Am League, for the Rockland Boulders. Deemes shared a very interesting perspective with us; one that we have all been thinking but have not quite articulated as well as he did for us. Deemes played the game he loved for a living and it eternally grateful for the opportunity. However, Minor Leaguers do not want a pay increase so they can live lavishly, just to live.
"One thing that a lot of people don’t understand is what goes on in the background of Minor League Baseball. I’ve had so many people tell me, “I thought you made a lot of money doing that” which in reality I didn’t, but for me it wasn’t necessarily about the money. I was able to play a game that I grew up playing and was able to play at a high level. I enjoyed every second of it. I am thankful to say I had the opportunity to do so, but do I wish we were able to make a little more money while playing. In the grand scheme of everything, I’m a % in this world that can say they played Pro Ball at a high level and for an MLB Team. It really does suck with the pay, but I feel like fighting for better pay will be hard because of the fact the teams could get players to play for low money."
- Ryan Deemes