Will we see Torii Hunter Jr. in Angels' outfield sooner than later?

During his five years with the Angels organization, from 2008-12, outfielder Torii Hunter became (and remains) a huge fan favorite.

So when the club drafted Hunter's son, Torii Hunter Jr., during the 23rd-round of June's MLB Draft, it had everyone excited ... especially dad, who announced the pick on a conference call.

For Hunter Jr., his commitment to Notre Dame football remained a priority.

On Thursday, however, things changed as Hunter Jr. announced he would be giving up his final year with the Irish to focus on baseball.

https://twitter.com/THunterJr/status/809498075496677381

Hunter Jr., also an outfielder, posted 73-career catches and five touchdowns during three seasons in South Bend, which ended with concussions and a knee injury.

Now Hunter can focus on working his way up through the Angels' minor league system.

"I'm excited," said Angels manager Mike Scioscia said of Hunter Jr. in June. "This kid's a great kid; he's a great athlete. As good a football player as he is, I know he loves baseball. Hopefully he'll get that chance."

The club can't wait to see him at Spring Training.

https://twitter.com/Angels/status/809525139016531968