Arizona Diamondbacks name 34th draft pick after Cory Hahn

In 2013, the Arizona Diamondbacks spent a draft pick on a player who they knew would never play a single inning for them.

And yet, choosing Cory Hahn in the 34th round was a great pick.

Hahn, you may recall, played for Arizona State University before being paralyzed sliding into second base during his freshman year.

Just because his playing days were over, though, did not mean he had no future in baseball. He’s been a member of the D-backs organization since then, joining the front office as an Assistant in the Scout Ahead Development Program upon graduation.

And Friday, the team announced it has named its 34th-round selection after him. From here on, it will be known as the “Cory Hahn 34th Pick.”

“When we drafted Cory two years ago, we did so with the intention of him being a part of this organization for many years to come,” D-backs President & CEO Derrick Hall said in a press release Friday. “By naming our 34th pick after him, we ensure his place in D-backs history even as he just begins to make his mark in the front office. He has already made valuable contributions to the franchise and we look forward to keeping tabs on those who follow in his footsteps — both on and off the field — as our 34th-round pick each year.”

Hahn, who wore number 34 during his playing days at ASU, appreciates the gesture.

“There aren’t many times when I’m speechless but when Tony La Russa made the announcement in the draft room I was left speechless with a smile going from ear to ear,” said Hahn. “This is an extremely humbling gesture and an honor for not only myself but my family as well. I’m beyond grateful to be a part of the D-backs family.”

The 2015 First-Year Player Draft will begin on June 8 and run through June 10. The D-backs have the first overall selection.