SARASOTA, Fla. — The time was right for Jack Graham.

Four years ago, the Seneca Valley graduate was drafted by the Chicago White Sox the same week he graduated high school. He bypassed that offer to play professionally, electing instead to take his game to Youngstown State University.

After two years with the Penguins, Graham transferred to Slippery Rock University, where he spent a pair of injury-riddled seasons.

Last Wednesday, Graham, a second baseman, was taken by the Baltimore Orioles in the 38th round of Major League Baseball’s first-year player draft. Despite having one year of eligibility left at SRU, he jumped at the chance to enter the pro ranks this time.

“I was only 18 years old when I was drafted by Chicago,” Graham said. “My dad (Baltimore’s Director of Player Development Brian Graham) didn’t want me to go without a strong foundation for my education. He was a heavy influence on me deciding to go to college at the time.

“Now I’m 22,” Graham added. “I’m more mature physically and mentally. I appreciate the Orioles for giving me the opportunity to live my dream of playing pro baseball.”

Graham (5-foot-10, 180 pounds) signed a contract with Baltimore on Friday and joined the club’s Gulf Coast League (rookie) affiliate in Florida on Monday. The Gulf Coast League’s season begins next week.

“I really felt that I’m ready to take that next step,” Graham said. “I’m excited.”

Graham missed the entire 2014 season due to injury. He was hampered again this past season, including a quad injury after colliding with the fence in a game against California (Pa.) University. He appeared in 16 games, starting five, while batting .222 with three runs scored and two RBI.

“I was banged up and it was frustrating,” he said. “You put the work in and you want to be on the field, but going through adversity just makes you stronger. I’ve worked hard and put myself in the best position to succeed.”

Like any player in his position, Graham is hoping his career path leads to the major leagues, but he is ready to embrace the experience either way.

“A very small percentage of players make it and I’m not going to play baseball forever,” he said, “but life is about opportunity and taking advantage of it.”

As for college, Graham is determined to get a degree in political science.

“I have 17 credits left,” he said. “I’m coming back to Slippery Rock in the fall. That’s also something I’m proud of, the fact that I’m going to finish my education. It will fulfill a promise I made to my parents.”