Former Summit High School baseball standout Slater de Brun has been traded from the Baltimore Orioles to the Tampa Bay Rays, marking a significant shift in his professional career. This trade, confirmed by ESPN on December 19, 2025, involves a multi-player package deal and highlights de Brun’s rising profile in Major League Baseball.
De Brun, who was selected as the 37th overall pick in the first round of the July MLB draft, joins a list of players being exchanged in an inter-division trade. Alongside him, the Orioles also traded catcher Caden Bodine, pitcher Michael Forret, and outfielder Austin Overn. In return, the Rays sent right-handed pitcher Shane Baz to Baltimore, as part of this strategic transaction.
High School Success and National Recognition
The 5-foot-10-inch outfielder played a pivotal role in leading Summit to the Class 5A state title last spring. During his senior season, de Brun achieved impressive statistics, including a batting average of .370, 26 runs batted in, 35 runs scored, and 22 stolen bases. His exceptional performance earned him the title of Intermountain Conference Player of the Year and a spot on the Class 5A first-team all-state roster.
De Brun’s accolades extend beyond high school, as he was selected to represent the USA Baseball National Team last summer. Initially committed to play college baseball at Vanderbilt University, he ultimately opted to sign with the Orioles following his draft selection.
Historical Context and Future Prospects
This trade positions de Brun as one of the highest-drafted baseball players from Central Oregon, following in the footsteps of Jacoby Ellsbury, who was selected by the Boston Red Sox with the 23rd pick in 2005. Ellsbury had a distinguished career, playing for both the Red Sox and the New York Yankees.
As de Brun transitions to the Rays, he faces the challenge of adapting to a new team and environment while continuing to develop his skills at the professional level. The upcoming seasons will be crucial for his growth and potential impact in Major League Baseball.
For more information on Slater de Brun’s career and updates on the trade, please reach out to sports reporter Brian Rathbone at 541-668-7538 or via email at [email protected].
