Greg Pace Jr.: A Baseball Journey from Detroit Edison High School to Michigan
Greg Pace Jr. emerged from Detroit Edison High School as one of Michigan’s top baseball prospects, ranked fifth overall in the state. His skills as an outfielder attracted attention from teams nationwide as he prepared for his senior year with the Michigan baseball team.
Starting in his sophomore year, collegiate programs began to take note of Pace Jr.’s talent during his games. As he gained recognition, the number of interested scouts and agents grew. “Scouts were now involved, agents and scouts,” Pace Jr. remarked. “Traveling from Michigan to Alabama or Florida, bouncing around different places. It was new to me.” His baseball journey expanded further when scouts from professional teams began attending his games. An East Coast Pro tournament at Fenway Park introduced him to the Major League scene, and by his senior year, he was discussing his future with 26 of the 30 MLB teams.
Pace Jr. was drafted in the 20th round of the 2022 MLB draft by the Toronto Blue Jays. Although several teams pursued him throughout high school, including the Kansas City Royals and Miami Marlins, he ultimately chose Toronto. However, his time with the Blue Jays was short-lived.
Amidst the attention, Pace Jr. felt the pressure of choice. A recruiting call from Michigan following a Prep Baseball Tournament in Pennsylvania became a defining moment. “I ended up getting a call from Michigan when their recruiting opened up,” he shared. “I love the team culture, I love the baseball part and academics, obviously. And that’s why I made my decision to come to Michigan.” His commitment to the Wolverines came easy, and he has had no regrets since.
Pace Jr.’s passion for baseball began at a young age. His father, Greg Pace Sr., remembers tossing balls with him as soon as he learned to walk. Pace Jr. played for the Detroit Police Athletic League and later joined a 7U travel team, where he gained valuable experience and training. Despite facing challenges with his middle school’s lack of a baseball team, he stayed committed to the sport.
He entered high school as a dual-sport athlete, balancing baseball and basketball. However, it became clear that baseball was his true passion. “I just kind of asked him, ‘(Do you) want to play (baseball) that year?’ We didn’t want to force him into anything,” his father said. Pace Jr. chose baseball, and his journey subsequently soared as scouts began attending his games.
His initial college career started slowly, but under the guidance of Michigan’s coaching staff, he began to shine. In his redshirt sophomore year, Pace Jr. improved tremendously, nearly doubling his runs and showcasing his defensive skills, affirming his MLB potential. As he progressed through the roster, he built strong relationships with teammates, fostering team chemistry.
Reflecting on his journey, Pace Jr. simply stated, “A journey. Everybody’s journey isn’t the prettiest, everybody’s journey isn’t the best … but I continue to trust myself.” His steadfast commitment to Michigan, along with his ongoing dedication to personal growth, serves as a model for his teammates. The choice to join the Wolverines has profoundly impacted his life, embodying the “Michigan Man” ethos.
