Oakland A's prospect and Phoenix Desert Vista High School graduate Casey Thomas died unexpectedly in Phoenix, according to the team.
Thomas, a shortstop who played baseball at Desert Vista and GateWay Community College in Phoenix, was Oakland's 34th-round pick in last year's MLB Draft. He was in Phoenix participating in extended spring training.
The A's did not provide additional information on the circumstances surrounding Thomas' death. Thomas is the son of A's pro scout Tom Thomas.
"We are devastated to hear of this tragedy within the A's family," A's executive vice president of baseball operations Billy Beane said in a statement. "Our hearts go out to Tom and his family on their loss; Casey was a wonderful young man and teammate, and will be missed by all the A's organization."
Thomas hit .258 with 18 RBI in 37 games for the A's' rookie-level minor-league affiliate in the Arizona League last season.
Our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Casey Thomas, who recently passed away. pic.twitter.com/qnrjKpW5PQ
— Oakland A's ???? (@Athletics) May 2, 2017
