TEMECULA, CA — Great Oak High School standout Gavin Fien has officially signed with the Texas Rangers after being selected 12th overall in the 2025 MLB Draft. The 18-year-old shortstop celebrated the milestone by throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at Tuesday’s game between the Rangers and the Oakland Athletics.
Fien inked a deal that includes a $4.8 million signing bonus, slightly under slot value, giving Texas some financial flexibility.
A former Texas Longhorns commit, Fien is regarded as one of the top high school hitters in the draft class. According to MLB.com, while he was drafted as a shortstop, his strong arm and offensive skillset may lead him to third base long term.
“Honestly, words can’t even explain what I’m feeling,” Fien told MLB. “To be 18 years old, fresh out of high school, and to reach this level — it means the world to me and my family. All the hard work, the ups and downs, the grind… To join such a top-tier organization is just incredible. I’m forever grateful.”
MLB describes Fien as a 6-foot-3 right-handed hitter with notable bat speed and the ability to drive line drives against elite competition. Though he has a high-hand setup at the plate that caused timing issues this spring, scouts see potential for added power as he fills out physically. He’s also shown improved athleticism, though speed likely won’t be a major part of his game.
There’s a possibility Fien could transition to first base or a corner outfield role down the line, but many scouts believe his bat alone warranted a first-round selection.
Gavin follows in the footsteps of his older brother, Dylan Fien — a switch-hitting catcher currently in the Athletics’ organization, the same team Texas faced Tuesday night.
His mother, Meghan Fien, was there for the big moment.
“As a mom, it was a dream come true to watch one of my sons reach such an incredible goal at a young age,” she told Patch. “It brought tears to my eyes. I always hoped to raise kind, hardworking, respectful, loyal, God-fearing young men. To see that vision line up with their dreams has been something truly special and fills me with overwhelming pride.”
