2012 Draftees and Status

[OregonStrosFan]

This '2012 Draftees and Status' thread will open at 5 CDST on 6/4/12.  The '2012 Draft' thread will be closed at that time.

Given the importance of the MLB slotting allotments in the 2012 draft, there will be a slightly different format to the 'Draftees and Status' thread.  There will be an initial chart used through the end of the draft, and a 'supplemental' chart that we'll transition to after the draft is complete.  Both are shown below.

Draftee Carlos Correa Lance McCullers Jr. Nolan Fontana Brady Rodgers Rio Ruiz Andrew Aplin Brett Phillips Preston Tucker Tyler Heineman Daniel Minor Joseph Bircher Hunter Virant Terrell Joyce Brian Holmes Jooel Sciafani Erick Gonzalez Dan Gulbransen Aaron West Ricky Gringras Austin Elkins Michael Clark Marc Wik Kenneth Long Travis Ballew Partick Blair Ryan Dineen C. J. Hinojosa Tanner Mathis Angel Ibanez Christian Garcia John Neely M. P. Cokinos Tyler Manez Mike Hauschild Jordan Jankowski James Sinatro Michael Martinez Michael Dimock Zachary Remillard Mitchell Traver Joe Shaw Non-drafted FA signings

Rd/Pick (1) 1 (Comp A) 41 (2) 61 (3) 96 (4) 129 (5) 159 (6) 189 (7) 219 (8) 249 (9) 279 (10) 309 (11) 339 (12) 369 (13) 399 (14) 429 (15) 459 (16) 489 (17) 519 (18) 549 (19) 579 (20) 609 (21) 639 (22) 669 (23) 699 (24) 729 (25) 759 (26) 789 (27) 819 (28) 849 (29) 879 (30) 909 (31) 939 (32) 969 (33) 999 (34) 1029 (35) 1059 (36) 1089 (37) 1119 (38) 1149 (39) 1179 (40) 1209

$ Allotment $7,200,000 $1,258,700 $844,100 $495,200 $360,200 $269,700 $201,900 $151,400 $140,400 $131,100 $125,000 [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000]

POS SS RHP SS RHP 3B CF CF OF C RHP LHP LHP LF LHP SS RHP LF RP C 2B LHP CF LHP RHP SS SS SS CF 3B RHP RHP C LHP RHP RHP C 1B RHP 3B RHP RHP

School Puerto Rico BB Academy, PR Jesuit HS, FL Florida, FL Arizona State, AZ Bishop Amat HS, CA Arizona State, AZ Seminole HS, FL Florida, FL UCLA, CA Texas A&M – Corpus, TX Bradley University, IL Adolfo Camarillo HS, CA Florida State College, FL Wake Forest, NC Dartmouth, NH Gateway CC, AZ Jacksonville University, FL Washington, WA Point Loma Nazarene U, CA Dallas Baptist, TX Kent State, OH Chabot College, CA Illinois State, IL Texas State, TX Wake Forest, NC Eastern Illinois, IL Klein Collins HS, TX Ole Miss, MS U Texas Pan American, TX Florence-Darlington Tech, SC Texas Tech, TX St. Mary's University, TX Plainedge HS, NY Dayton, OH Catawba College, NC Skyline HS, WA Florida International, FL Wake Forest, NC LaSalle Institute, NY Houston Christian HS, TX Ennis HS, TX

Class HS HS JR JR HS JR HS SR JR JR SR HS J2 JR JR J2 JR SR JR JR JR J2 5S JR JR JR HS JR JR J2 SR JR HS SR SR HS SR SR HS HS HS

B/T R/R L/R L/R R/R L/R L/L L/R L/L S/R R/R L/L R/L R/R L/L S/R R/R L/L R/R L/R S/R L/L L/R L/L R/R R/R L/R R/R L/L L/R R/R R/R R/R L/L R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R

Ht/Wt 6'04" / 190 6'01" / 190 5'11" / 192 6'01" / 195 6'01" / 180 6'00" / 194 6'00" / 175 6'00" / 220 5'11" / 205 5'11" / 188 6'04" / 220 6'03" / 175 6'03" / 230 6'04" / 205 5'09" / 185 6'01" / 175 5'11" / 200 6'01" / 205 6'02" / 205 5'11" / 185 6'03" / 175 5'11" / 195 6'00" / 165 6'00" / 160 5'10" / 180 6'02" / 205 5'11" / 185 5'11" / 180 6'02" / 220 6'02" / 175 6'02" / 195 6'02" / 215 6'03" / 180 6'03" / 210 6'00" / 195 5'10" / 185 6'00" / 215 6'02" / 194 6'01" / 200 6'07" / 240 6'05" / 215

DOB 09/22/94 10/02/93 06/06/91 09/17/90 05/22/94 03/21/91 05/30/94 07/06/90 06/19/91 02/09/91 03/27/90 01/22/94 05/29/92 01/30/91 04/22/90 01/10/92 01/05/91 06/01/90 10/18/90 12/21/90 06/11/91 07/18/92 01/28/89 05/01/91 10/01/91 03/02/91 07/15/94 06/27/91 09/10/90 09/24/91 07/09/90 06/18/90 01/01/94 01/22/90 05/17/89 09/03/93 12/05/89 10/26/89 02/21/94 05/03/94 12/20/93

Post draft 2012 Draftees and Status chart

Draftee Carlos Correa Lance McCullers Jr. Nolan Fontana Brady Rodgers Rio Ruiz Andrew Aplin Brett Phillips Preston Tucker Tyler Heineman Daniel Minor Joseph Bircher Hunter Virant Terrell Joyce Brian Holmes Jooel Sciafani Erick Gonzalez Dan Gulbransen Aaron West Ricky Gringras Austin Elkins Michael Clark Marc Wik Kenneth Long Travis Ballew Partick Blair Ryan Dineen C. J. Hinojosa Tanner Mathis Angel Ibanez Christian Garcia John Neely M. P. Cokinos Tyler Manez Mike Hauschild Jordan Jankowski James Sinatro Michael Martinez Michael Dimock Zachary Remillard Mitchell Traver Joe Shaw Non-drafted FA signings

Rd/Pick (1) 1 (Comp A) 41 (2) 61 (3) 96 (4) 129 (5) 159 (6) 189 (7) 219 (8) 249 (9) 279 (10) 309 (11) 339 (12) 369 (13) 399 (14) 429 (15) 459 (16) 489 (17) 519 (18) 549 (19) 579 (20) 609 (21) 639 (22) 669 (23) 699 (24) 729 (25) 759 (26) 789 (27) 819 (28) 849 (29) 879 (30) 909 (31) 939 (32) 969 (33) 999 (34) 1029 (35) 1059 (36) 1089 (37) 1119 (38) 1149 (39) 1179 (40) 1209

MLB $  Allotment $7,200,000 $1,258,700 $844,100 $495,200 $360,200 $269,700 $201,900 $151,400 $140,400 $131,100 $125,000 [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000]

$ Signed for

$ over/ under slot

Class HS HS JR JR HS JR HS SR JR JR SR HS J2 JR JR J2 JR SR JR JR JR J2 5S JR JR JR HS JR JR J2 SR JR HS SR SR HS SR SR HS HS HS

DOB 09/22/94 10/02/93 06/06/91 09/17/90 05/22/94 03/21/91 05/30/94 07/06/90 06/19/91 02/09/91 03/27/90 01/22/94 05/29/92 01/30/91 04/22/90 01/10/92 01/05/91 06/01/90 10/18/90 12/21/90 06/11/91 07/18/92 01/28/89 05/01/91 10/01/91 03/02/91 07/15/94 06/27/91 09/10/90 09/24/91 07/09/90 06/18/90 01/01/94 01/22/90 05/17/89 09/03/93 12/05/89 10/26/89 02/21/94 05/03/94 12/20/93

Scouting Report links

[pots]

At exactly what point can they lock in a bonus offer to whoever is 1-1?  Can they do it now, after they draft them, not until a later date?

[OregonStrosFan]

At exactly what point can they lock in a bonus offer to whoever is 1-1?  Can they do it now, after they draft them, not until a later date?

'Officially' lock them in? I'd 'guess' that it'd be about 6:10 CDST today...  Unofficially, I'd imagine that they have 'unofficially' locked the player in already (or are about to).  Just my $0.02...

[OregonStrosFan]

At exactly what point can they lock in a bonus offer to whoever is 1-1?  Can they do it now, after they draft them, not until a later date?

There are a lot of other factors at play here as well.  For example, if a player is still in the CWS, they won't (reasonably) be able to officially sign until after their season is over.  Other issues at play are that if you are going to try to sign late round players over 'slot', then you have to be pretty sure that you're 1.1 is going to sign for X, otherwise you are putting yourself at big risk.  Could very well be seeing a lot of last second signings under that scenario...

[OregonStrosFan]

Alright, here we go folks... Go 'STROS!!!

[Navin R Johnson]

Here we go....

[pots]

ticky ticky

[Bench]

WHAT'S HAPPENING?

[pots]

Selig is just coming to the podium

[pots]

Clock officially started

[Bench]

Where is the draft? 

[juliogotay]

Where is the draft? 

MLB network. 213 on DTV

[nsusaint]

wow, i'm still a member here.  lol

I've really enjoyed watching this team this year and I enjoy the way the club is moving foward.  I'm really hoping we take buxton tonight.

[pots]

Wow Correa

[Jacksonian]

Fuck the know it alls.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

Wow!

[juliogotay]

YIPEEEE.

[cougar]

Wow!  That's more than a bit of a shocker.

ETA: Anyone think Boras tried to squeeze the Astros and they balked?

[drew corleone]

That is funny. So much for the talking heads.

[Navin R Johnson]

So much for Crane demanding that they take Appel. BA looks ridiculous now.

[pots]

A bit giddy after that pick. 

[roadrunner]

Nice.  Fun.

[jbm]

Nice to see them swing big.  Kudos to the club for thinking for themselves.

[drew corleone]

So much for Crane demanding that they take Appel. BA looks ridiculous now.

First thing I thought.

[S.P. Rodriguez]

So much for Crane demanding that they take Appel. BA looks ridiculous now.

But now they have the "over-reaching" angle....

[pots]

7:20  [Comment From laxtonto laxtonto: ]
I guess Appel didn't meet thier price?  
Monday June 4, 2012 7:20 laxtonto
7:20 Frankie Piliere: That's what I'm hearing  

Nice, extra cash for later if true

[Mr. Happy]

Wow Correa

Who is he?

[jbm]

So much for Crane demanding that they take Appel. BA looks ridiculous now.

I think you are discounting that all those rumors might well have been negotiating ploys.

[Fynn]

Nice choice-worried they were going to choose Appel.

[pots]

Who is he?

Best SS in the draft. 

[Mr. Happy]

Best SS in the draft. 

College kid or HS?

[pots]

Not sure what Appel might have refused for a bonus, but he's already down to 5.2 million.  Twins took Buxton

[cougar]

College kid or HS?

17 year old from Puerto Rico Baseball Academy

[moriartp]

Not sure what Appel might have refused for a bonus, but he's already down to 5.2 million.  Twins took Buxton

This is going to be a fun draft to watch.

[OregonStrosFan]

Here is the 'Draft Profile' overview (with numerous scouting reports included) compiled about Correa by The Crawfish Boxes: LINK

[Navin R Johnson]

So will the people claiming that Crane was meddling with the draft admit they were full of shit now?  Can we expect BA to amend their statements or are they just your typical twitter journalist now too.

[pots]

Follows the standard Heck draft.  Up the middle

[OregonStrosFan]

So will the people claiming that Crane was meddling with the draft admit they were full of shit now?  Can we expect BA to amend their statements or are they just your typical twitter journalist now too.

[Mock BA quote] "We stand by our statement that Crane was meddling in the draft. We just had the wrong reason. The real reason is that he was too cheap to draft Appel or Buxton." [/Mock BA quote]

[pots]

Not sure what Appel might have refused for a bonus, but he's already down to 5.2 million.  Twins took Buxton

Mariners take Zunino.  Down to 4.2 milion.  Suck it Boras

[Navin R Johnson]

So what if anything does this say about Mier/Villar? 

[Ron Brand]

I love this pick.

It says that neither of them went 1-1 and they've got a little more to prove than they did yesterday.

[OregonStrosFan]

Hey Boras/Appel: The slot amount that Appel can sign for now it $3M less than it was 3 picks ago.  Just sayin'...

[jbm]

So what if anything does this say about Mier/Villar? 

Nothing. It means they picked who they think is the best player available, at a price they liked. Just as they should have done.

[EasTexAstro]

So what if anything does this say about Mier/Villar? 

That they weren't available at 1/1 in the draft. The Astros took the best player they thought they could sign into the system.

[Navin R Johnson]

[Mock BA quote] "We stand by our statement that Crane was meddling in the draft. We just had the wrong reason. The real reason is that he was too cheap to draft Appel or Buxton." [/Mock BA quote]

Sad to see BA stoop to that level (I know your comment was in jest, Im talking of the original BS).  I would expect that tripe from someone like Heyman.  My wife's (who is also a big Astros fan) 1st comment when I got home was about BA saying Crane was forcing the Astros to take Appel and she was pissed at Crane.... Unbelievably irresponsible journalism imo. Glad they have a pile of egg on their face.

[cougar]

Nothing. It means they picked who they think is the best player available, at a price they liked. Just as they should have done.

Or "Man, can you imagine a Correa-Mier-DDJr.-(hopefully)Wallace infield in a few years?"

[jbm]

Sad to see BA stoop to that level (I know your comment was in jest, Im talking of the original BS).  I would expect that tripe from someone like Heyman.  My wife's (who is also a big Astros fan) 1st comment when I got home was about BA saying Crane was forcing the Astros to take Appel and she was pissed at Crane.... Unbelievably irresponsible journalism imo. Glad they have a pile of egg on their face.

You still don't think the "rumor" was leaked on purpose, by the Astros.  Sure, it makes BA look like like fools, I guess, but I seriously doubt they drew it up out of thin air.

[jbm]

Wow, some club is going to have fun dealing with Boras. Nice to see Gausman before Appel. Seems appropriate.

[chuck]

Go fuck yourself Boras.

[Navin R Johnson]

You still don't think the "rumor" was leaked on purpose, by the Astros.  Sure, it makes BA look like like fools, I guess, but I seriously doubt they drew it up out of thin air.

I am not saying they "drew it up out of thin air," but they took some 2 bit rumor and tried to pawn it off as the truth.  And now they look like fools for doing so.  A respectable journalist wouldn't run with something like that unless they were 100% sure it was true.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Still falling. Enjoy $1MM!

[jbm]

I am not saying they "drew it up out of thin air," but they took some 2 bit rumor and tried to pawn it off as the truth.  And now they look like fools for doing so.  A respectable journalist wouldn't run with something like that unless they were 100% sure it was true.

Ok.  I'll buy that.

[jbm]

I'm starting to feel bad for Appel, but not for Satan.  This is getting ugly.

[Ebby Calvin]

Love the pick for a number of reasons.

[EasTexAstro]

I'm starting to feel bad for Appel, but not for Satan.  This is getting ugly.

Appel wanted satan. It happens.

[Tralfaz]

When does he start playing in the minors?

[Navin R Johnson]

Kevin Goldstein ‏@Kevin_Goldstein

Crazy rumor of Boras trying to push Mark Appel all the way to Washington at 16.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

I'm starting to feel bad for Appel, but not for Satan.  This is getting ugly.

I don't feel sorry for Appel he chose to dance with the devil.

[Mr. Happy]

I don't feel sorry for Appel he chose to dance with the devil.

+1 Let's see if Satan can make up that much money in his contract negotiations. Doubtful. There's no leverage since Appel is in college.

[jbm]

Kevin Goldstein ‏@Kevin_Goldstein

Crazy rumor of Boras trying to push Mark Appel all the way to Washington at 16.

I guess. They will lose a pick, but if it is a mid or late twenties pick, I guess it could happen.  Still seems like a steep price.  But interesting nonetheless.

[Ron Brand]

Kevin Goldstein ‏@Kevin_Goldstein

Crazy rumor of Boras trying to push Mark Appel all the way to Washington at 16.

"Trying to push"="They don't hate me."

[OregonStrosFan]

I'm VERY curious to hear what Satan's plan is in relationship to how he will handle the Appel negotiations... I GUARANTEE he has a plan...

[EasTexAstro]

Pirates!

[Hornstros]

Pirates!

they are loaded with RHPs

[OregonStrosFan]

PIT MLB allotment at 1.8 = $2.9M. This is $4.3 (about 60%) less than the allotment at 1.1. PITs total 2012 Bonus Pool is $6.6M by the way...

[EasTexAstro]

BTW, FYB.

Bud sucks at this.

[jbm]

Callis butchered that, based on my understanding. The Pirates have 2.9 mil for their first pick.  They can't transfer all that other money from their 6.5 mil total to use towards Appel.  Either Appel signs for something under 3.5ish or the Pirates better take a bunch of low-rent chumps with their next picks.  

[jbm]

BTW, FYB.

Bud sucks at this.

Yeah, I don't normally watch this. I was hoping for Dierker to announce.

[Jacksonian]

Appy I hope you have your tickets already.

[EasTexAstro]

Callis butchered that, based on my understanding. The Pirates have 2.9 mil for their first pick.  They can't transfer all that other money from their 6.5 mil total to use towards Appel.  Either Appel signs for something under 3.5ish or the Pirates better take a bunch of low-rent chumps with their next picks.  

or take some draft hits...Is he worth it?

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

BTW, FYB.

Bud sucks at this.

He is one hideous motherfucker.

[Jacksonian]

Callis butchered that, based on my understanding. The Pirates have 2.9 mil for their first pick.  They can't transfer all that other money from their 6.5 mil total to use towards Appel.  Either Appel signs for something under 3.5ish or the Pirates better take a bunch of low-rent chumps with their next picks.  

There's real punishment for going a little over slot too.

[jbm]

or take some draft hits...Is he worth it?

True, but it is hard for me to believe the Pirates can afford to lose one or two picks, but who knows. Glad it is not a problem near and dear to me.

[jbm]

There's real punishment for going a little over slot too.

Yeh, I butchered my post also. It is 5% of the 6.5 million, or 325K. That is what they have to play with, if all their other picks sign for suggested price. That is my understanding at least.

[OregonStrosFan]

Callis butchered that, based on my understanding. The Pirates have 2.9 mil for their first pick.  They can't transfer all that other money from their 6.5 mil total to use towards Appel.  Either Appel signs for something under 3.5ish or the Pirates better take a bunch of low-rent chumps with their next picks.  

As I understand it, they can use any excess from the amount not spent (but allotted) on players drafted and signed in rounds 2-10 (I'm not completely sure I'm correct, but *think* that is what the drill is).  Examples: even if PIT did not sign picks from rds 2-10, they could still only pay $2.9M to Appel.  If they were to sign and pay each of their picks from rds 2-10 at $100,000 per pick ($900K & unrealistic), they could pay Appel $5.7M.  Gonna be interesting to see how all this unfolds...

[juliogotay]

How deep are we going tonight? 2 rounds?

[moriartp]

How deep are we going tonight? 2 rounds?

1st and sandwich.

[MusicMan]

Supplemental round.

By the way, I'm far too happy with the pick and ht it says about the new front office to worry about any rumors. My guess is Boras floated bad info to Callis and they both got burned.

[OregonStrosFan]

How deep are we going tonight? 2 rounds?

Astros next pick at 41...  If its any consolation, the Los Angelleeez Angels of Anaheim do not have a pick tonight, so you won't have to hear Bud say it.  That's something, no?!?

[moriartp]

Astros next pick at 41...  If its any consolation, the Los Angelleeez Angels of Anaheim do not have a pick tonight, so you won't have to hear Bud say it.  That's something, no?!?

Dojers.

[OregonStrosFan]

Dojers.

The Dodgers moved to Anaheim?!?  Did Magic Johnson approve this, or did Nolan force the move down his throat?!?

[moriartp]

The Dodgers moved to Anaheim?!?  Did Magic Johnson approve this, or did Nolan force the move down his throat?!?

Ah, figured you were referring to the "Los Angeleez." *shudder*

[OregonStrosFan]

Ah, figured you were referring to the "Los Angeleez." *shudder*

I was trying to look at the glass as half-full... But yes, you are correct...

[Fynn]

I'm starting to feel bad for Appel, but not for Satan.  This is getting ugly.

I don't.  It takes two to tango.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

I'm a Courtney Hawkins fan.

[moriartp]

I don't.  It takes two to tango.

Dude's twenty years old and had people telling him he could get $7mm+. I'd cut him some slack.

[OregonStrosFan]

I'm a Courtney Hawkins fan.

That was AWESOME - not to mention the fact that had he missed the landing badly, it'd cost him about $2M...

[Fynn]

Dude's twenty years old and had people telling him he could get $7mm+. I'd cut him some slack.

And attends Stanford (not your typical community college).  Yeah, he is twenty-just a kid, but still, you have to live with the choices you make.   Perhaps he can learn from this experience.

[OregonStrosFan]

Dude's twenty years old and had people telling him he could get $7mm+. I'd cut him some slack.

Some slack, yes.

Then again, kid goes to Stanford and [potentially] had a chance to sign for his home town team for more money than he'd have gotten if he was chosen at 1.4... [This all assumes that he was *actually* the 'Stros choice at 1.1 if he'd agreed to $5M or so, which are my Wild Ass Guesses on the subject...].

[Navin R Johnson]

From Jayson Stark

"If Pirates were to exceed their pool by more than $1M, they'd get fined $1M+ & lose 1st-round picks in each of next 2 drafts."

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

That was AWESOME - not to mention the fact that had he missed the landing badly, it'd cost him about $2M...

I imagine Kenny Williams will strongly suggest he not do that anymore.

[Navin R Johnson]

Dude's twenty years old and had people telling him he could get $7mm+. I'd cut him some slack.

And he will still be a millionaire, just not 7 times over, not gonna shed any tears for him.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

I don't understand a world where a gooney goofy buffoon like Bud Selig is the commissioner of MLB, but here I am.

[EasTexAstro]

I don't understand a world where a gooney goofy buffoon like Bud Selig is the commissioner of MLB, but here I am.

+1

[OregonStrosFan]

I don't understand a world where a gooney goofy buffoon like Bud Selig is the commissioner of MLB, but here I am.

If it helps, he is only 'still' commissioner of MLB because I no longer have any 'plausible deniability' regarding any potential 'untimely demise' he might have... FML!!!

[Fynn]

I'll throw it out here-who thinks that Correa 17, 6' 4" 190lbs will stay at shortstop?  I suspect he will end up being at third.

[OregonStrosFan]

From Levine (via Twitter):

Heck: "I don't think there was a true No. 1 guy. There's 4 other guys we could have talked about up there and we all would have been happy."

[OregonStrosFan]

MLB.com Scouting report on Correa: LINK

[BizidyDizidy]

Random, but Twitter really is an awesome service

[chuck]

From Levine (via Twitter):

Heck: "I don't think there was a true No. 1 guy. There's 4 other guys we could have talked about up there and we all would have been happy."

In other words Heck doesn't like him very much. I'll take that as an excellent sign.

[jbm]

From Jayson Stark

"If Pirates were to exceed their pool by more than $1M, they'd get fined $1M+ & lose 1st-round picks in each of next 2 drafts."

There is so much conflicting info out there.  I could swear it was 5% of the total allotment of the picks they sign in the first ten rounds. 1 mil would make that total pool 20 mil.  I saw their allotment at 6.something.   I'm really confused.

[jbm]

Random, but Twitter really is an awesome service

. Selig said Appel was from Stanford, Stanford California.  Isn't it Palo Alto or does the campus actually have a geographic name of "Stanford" also? 

[pots]

This in intriguing:

Comment From spano23spano23: ]
Where do you think Lance McCullers goes?  
Monday June 4, 2012 9:20 spano23
9:20  Kiley McDaniel: No idea but only a few teams have the pool to sign him, possible spots are going fast.  
 

[Navin R Johnson]

There is so much conflicting info out there.  I could swear it was 5% of the total allotment of the picks they sign in the first ten rounds. 1 mil would make that total pool 20 mil.  I saw their allotment at 6.something.   I'm really confused.

That makes 2 of us.

[OregonStrosFan]

There is so much conflicting info out there.  I could swear it was 5% of the total allotment of the picks they sign in the first ten rounds. 1 mil would make that total pool 20 mil.  I saw their allotment at 6.something.   I'm really confused.

Here is a good summary of penalties for going over allotments: LINK

Excess of Pool Penalty (Tax on Overage/Draft Picks)
0-5% 75% tax on overage
5-10% 75% tax on overage and loss of 1st round pick
10-15% 100% tax on overage and loss of 1st and 2nd round picks
15%+ 100% tax on overage and loss of 1st round picks in next two drafts

[Navin R Johnson]

Extremely complimentary article from Heyman.

http://www.cbssports.com/mlb/blog/jon-heyman/19259631/multi-talented-correa-worth-a-gamble-for-astros-hes-like-a-rod-says-scout

[pots]

15 picks in the way.  Hensley and Mccullers stil available

[Navin R Johnson]

Hearing FYB say; "NOW. ON. THE. CleeeOCK"  at the conclusion of every pick is, fingernails on the chalkboard, awful.

[OregonStrosFan]

I imagine Kenny Williams will strongly suggest he not do that anymore.

Kenny called him: "No more flips [kid], keep your feet on the ground..."

[pots]

Okay so the two comps I've heard are A-Rod and Tulowitzki.  I thought there wasn't a true 1-1 in this draft?

[BizidyDizidy]

. Selig said Appel was from Stanford, Stanford California.  Isn't it Palo Alto or does the campus actually have a geographic name of "Stanford" also? 

Yes - its not really incorporated, but it's not technically in Palo Alto. You send mail to Stanford, CA

[OregonStrosFan]

And so it begins...  Fro (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review sports columnist Dejan Kovacevik (via Twitter):

Uh-oh, here we go. Mark Appel is "not available" for conference call with Pittsburgh media, according to #Pirates.

[Fynn]

And so it begins...  Fro (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review sports columnist Dejan Kovacevik (via Twitter):

Uh-oh, here we go. Mark Appel is "not available" for conference call with Pittsburgh media, according to #Pirates.

Is there perhaps another year at Stanford in his future?

[moriartp]

And so it begins...  Fro (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review sports columnist Dejan Kovacevik (via Twitter):

Uh-oh, here we go. Mark Appel is "not available" for conference call with Pittsburgh media, according to #Pirates.

Official statement from Appel through Pirates:

"I’m currently concentrating on winning a national championship and finishing my academic endeavors at Stanford. I will address the possibility of a professional career in due time."

[MusicMan]

And so it begins...  Fro (Pittsburgh Tribune-Review sports columnist Dejan Kovacevik (via Twitter):

Uh-oh, here we go. Mark Appel is "not available" for conference call with Pittsburgh media, according to #Pirates.

Well done, Mr. Luhnow.

[pots]

Hensley off the board.  Mccullers still out there, 10 picks in the way

[Fynn]

Hensley off the board.  Mccullers still out there, 10 picks in the way

Wonder if McCullers will fall futher than expected too.

[OregonStrosFan]

Official statement from Appel through Pirates:

"I’m currently concentrating on winning a national championship and finishing my academic endeavors at Stanford. I will address the possibility of a professional career in due time."

Dejan Kovacevic ‏@Dejan_Kovacevic
Mark Appel had as much to do with authoring that statement as I had in the Magna Carta.

[hostros7]

Hensley off the board.  Mccullers still out there, 10 picks in the way

Callis implies on twitter McCullers most likely signable by team with supplemental pick.

[pots]

Callis implies on twitter McCullers most likely signable by team with supplemental pick.

They are assuming Cardinals due to their Sr pick in the first round

[moriartp]

Dejan Kovacevic ‏@Dejan_Kovacevic
Mark Appel had as much to do with authoring that statement as I had in the Magna Carta.

Ha! I'm gonna go grab some popcorn.

[OregonStrosFan]

Best available per Callis:

13. RHP - L. McCullers
23. C - J. Gallo
25. LHP - M. Smoral
27. OF - S. Piscotti

[Navin R Johnson]

Correa was just on the set, considering he taught himself English 3 years ago, he did a great job in the interview.

[pots]

Nice 1 minute speed round

[pots]

Cards are up, will Mccullers fall?

[pots]

Cards are up, will Mccullers fall?

He falls, Bos, Mil, Tex, and Philly to go

[OregonStrosFan]

Cards are up, will Mccullers fall?

Nolan'll screw us over, whoever he chooses... Just sayin'...

[pots]

He falls, Bos, Mil, Tex, and Philly to go

Just Tex and Philly left...

[pots]

Just Tex and Philly left...

And then there was one....

[Navin R Johnson]

1 minute between picks is 12034.98676 Altuves more enjoyable than 5 minutes.

[pots]

And then there was one....

Yeah he fell!  Now will he fall farther....

[hostros7]

Nolan'll screw us over, whoever he chooses... Just sayin'...

“@jimcallisBA: #Rangers got one of #mlbdraft's most intriguing talents in Joey Gallo, might be 8 raw power & is 8 arm strength. Their pick at 39.”

[moriartp]

McCullers!

[MusicMan]

McCullers!

[pots]

Holy shit they took Mccullers!

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

Got him!

[pots]

Luhnow....we aren't worthy

[MusicMan]

Mayo saying he thinks Correa goes for less than full cap and that money goes to McCullers.

[Ron Brand]

This might be the best Astro night in years.

[Fynn]

Luhnow....we aren't worthy

Negotiating will begin at 5 million.

[MusicMan]

Mayo saying he thinks Correa goes for less than full cap and that money goes to McCullers.

Callis just tweeted the same.

[hostros7]

Holy shit they took Mccullers!

Because crane made them take Appel...er, was too cheap to take Appel... Er, fuck we have no idea.  - pundits

[OregonStrosFan]

Holy shit they took Mccullers!

VERY, VERY EXCITED BY THAT PICK!!!

A misc tweet from Levine (LINK): Astros pick, No. 41 overall: HS pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. Scott Boras guy. Now it just got fun.

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

"Hey Scott, have a seat.  Can't wait to talk to you about McCullers.  How're your other draftees?"

[moriartp]

This might be the best Astro night in years.

McCullers rated #13 by BA. Doesn't sound too shabby. Good night indeed.

[Fynn]

"Hey Scott, have a seat.  Can't wait to talk to you about McCullers.  How're your other draftees?"

Wonder if the 2013 crop will be begging to kiss Boras' ring.

[pots]

McCullers rated #13 by BA. Doesn't sound too shabby. Good night indeed.

Hits upper 90s on the gun in HS

[jbm]

Negotiating will begin at 5 million.

That can't even be in the ballpark.  That is almost 4 million over the allotment.

[OregonStrosFan]

"Hey Scott, have a seat.  Can't wait to talk to you about McCullers.  How're your other draftees?"

That's the beauty of it... As an advisee, they'd talk to McCullers himself, no?!? 

First negotiation line to McCullers should be: Boras just cost Appel $3.9 M. Are you really going to let that guy tell you what to do?!?  [Maybe wishful thinking, but still...]

[pots]

That's the beauty of it... As an advisee, they'd talk to McCullers himself, no?!? 

First negotiation line to McCullers should be: Boras just cost Appel $3.9 M. Are you really going to let that guy tell you what to do?!?  [Maybe wishful thinking, but still...]

They said he wanted middle upper first round money.  That 3-3.5 million.  If Correa signs for 6 million, you have it

[Jacksonian]

Looks to me like they are going BPA no matter what.

[OregonStrosFan]

That can't even be in the ballpark.  That is almost 4 million over the allotment.

You're 100% correct. Bora$ most certainly will start at $8M+ over allotment for that slot...

[Fynn]

That can't even be in the ballpark.  That is almost 4 million over the allotment.

I know--that's why its so great!!!

[pots]

You're 100% correct. Bora$ most certainly will start at $8M+ over allotment for that slot...

Doesn't matter what they ask for.  After Correa signs what ever is left he will be offered (plus maybe the 500k they can go over without losing a pick)

[roadrunner]

Really like what Luhnow did here.

[jbm]

Doesn't matter what they ask for.  After Correa signs what ever is left he will be offered (plus maybe the 500k they can go over without losing a pick)

Makes sense to me.  So, if he doesn't sign, is there a compensation pick next year for an unsigned supplemental pick?

[OregonStrosFan]

Scouting report compilation on McCullers via The Crawfish Boxes: LINK

[pots]

Makes sense to me.  So, if he doesn't sign, is there a compensation pick next year for an unsigned supplemental pick?

Unfortunately, no

[moriartp]

If they can save enough on Correa to offer McCullers $3mm, I don't see how the kid could turn it down. Then again, Boras.

[jbm]

Unfortunately, no

I hope they know what they are doing. You know Satan will be using that as leverage.

I wonder if, for insurance so to speak, the Astros take some other signability guys later on.  You know, plan on nabbing two out of three for example. It would give them some leverage in the negotiation. 

[roadrunner]

Unfortunately, no

So compensation picks don't have the same rules as the first round?

[pots]

I hope they know what they are doing. You know Satan will be using that as leverage.

I wonder if, for insurance so to speak, the Astros take some other signability guys later on.  You know, plan on nabbing two out of three for example. It would give them some leverage in the negotiation. 

They'll be able to get everything that doesn't cost the Stros a first round pick next year.  And if he doesn't sign, he'll have to risk a few years at college and hope he can come out as a top 7-8 guy.  

[pots]

So compensation picks don't have the same rules as the first round?

They mentioned it right after the pick on mlb.tv

[hostros7]

I hope they know what they are doing. You know Satan will be using that as leverage.

I wonder if, for insurance so to speak, the Astros take some other signability guys later on.  You know, plan on nabbing two out of three for example. It would give them some leverage in the negotiation. 

I could be wrong but I think the astros have the upper hand here.  The team can only offer so much, as defined by the rules and happens to be significantly more than most others could have.  Boras encourages a signing or gets no commission.  Best case for him is that lance goes to school and comes back as a top five pick.  However, if you rsk adjust that outcome, the Astros offers should be theoretically better.

Also, lance is an MLB legacy.  Lets hope his dad pushes the MLB development route.

[OregonStrosFan]

Nathan Rode ‏@BAHighSchool
So whatever Astros save on Correa at No. 1, tack it onto the $1,258,700 that's slotted at No. 41, where they snagged RHP Lance McCullers.

[Navin R Johnson]

This sure doesn't sound promising.

http://www.tampabay.com/hometeam/blog/when-talent-and-revamped-draft-collide-mccullers-l/14010/

Neither Perfect Game nor Baseball America has him in the top 10 picks. The reasoning has nothing to do with his talent, but everything to do with money and signability.
 
“It’s frustrating, the whole draft thing is frustrating,” McCullers said. “I’ve done nothing than get better since I’ve been ranked No. 1 forever, and no one in the country had a better year than me on the hill.
 
 “If Major League Baseball wants to undervalue me, then I’ll show them what I’m really about three years from now.”
 

[pots]

From Astros Country:

his senior season he went 13-0 with a 0.18 ERA in 77IP, with 140K:30BB

[Mr. Happy]

This sure doesn't sound promising.

http://www.tampabay.com/hometeam/blog/when-talent-and-revamped-draft-collide-mccullers-l/14010/

Neither Perfect Game nor Baseball America has him in the top 10 picks. The reasoning has nothing to do with his talent, but everything to do with money and signability.
 
“It’s frustrating, the whole draft thing is frustrating,” McCullers said. “I’ve done nothing than get better since I’ve been ranked No. 1 forever, and no one in the country had a better year than me on the hill.
 
 “If Major League Baseball wants to undervalue me, then I’ll show them what I’m really about three years from now.”
 

Pure posturing and sour grapes from a  naive high school kid. I put no stock in it. If the Astros can offer him $3 mil, he'd be a damn fool not to take it.

[pots]

This sure doesn't sound promising.

http://www.tampabay.com/hometeam/blog/when-talent-and-revamped-draft-collide-mccullers-l/14010/

Neither Perfect Game nor Baseball America has him in the top 10 picks. The reasoning has nothing to do with his talent, but everything to do with money and signability.
 
“It’s frustrating, the whole draft thing is frustrating,” McCullers said. “I’ve done nothing than get better since I’ve been ranked No. 1 forever, and no one in the country had a better year than me on the hill.
 
 “If Major League Baseball wants to undervalue me, then I’ll show them what I’m really about three years from now.”
 

That was Saturday, would like to hear what he has to say today.  And after the Astros make an offer. 

[austro]

Pure posturing and sour grapes from a  naive high school kid. I put no stock in it. If the Astros can offer him $3 mil, he'd be a damn fool not to take it.

They should just send him a tape with an endless loop of "Matt Harrington" on it.

[Navin R Johnson]

Or Matt Purke

[moriartp]

Astros also have $844k for their first pick tomorrow. Could get a deal worked out and squeeze another $500k or so for McCullers there if they're so inclined.

[OregonStrosFan]

Astros also have $844k for their first pick tomorrow. Could get a deal worked out and squeeze another $500k or so for McCullers there if they're so inclined.

I'm predicting (again, wild ass guess here, mostly...) that the Astros end up with $2M extra from Correa at 1.1 to spend elsewhere... My WAG on McCullers is $2.5M'ish ($1.25M above slot)... And that he ultimately signs. That's my WAG, anyone care to to opine?!?

[juliogotay]

I'm predicting (again, wild ass guess here, mostly...) that the Astros end up with $2M extra from Correa at 1.1 to spend elsewhere... My WAG on McCullers is $2.5M'ish ($1.25M above slot)... And that he ultimately signs. That's my WAG, anyone care to to opine?!?

If Boras weren't involved I would be more optimistic. He may even feel the Astros embarrassed him over Appel and try to even the score even though it wouldn't appear to be in his best interest.

[Fynn]

Pure posturing and sour grapes from a  naive high school kid. I put no stock in it. If the Astros can offer him $3 mil, he'd be a damn fool not to take it.

Hopefully Lances' father will talk some sense into the kid.  If not, as they say, a fool and his money are soon parted.
I think he will sign though if he can get 3million.

[Duman]

Appy I hope you have your tickets already.

I am one happy camper tonight!

[Ron Brand]

From Levine:

“We called his people and talked prior to taking him to make sure that we were thinking in the same area and we felt comfortable with the answer that we got,” general manager Jeff Luhnow said, adding that he did not make the two picks in coordination with each other.

[Bonomaniac]

any good place for a list of top guys remaining?

[OregonStrosFan]

Nice scouting report on McCullers Jr. (LINK).  Gotta say, kinda like the way it reads!

[OregonStrosFan]

any good place for a list of top guys remaining?

Try here: http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft-preview/?srch=byNatRank&top=500&submit=Search#

[Duman]

If McCullars signs - we can thank the Pirates for signing Clint Barmes for making it possible.

[OregonStrosFan]

If McCullars signs - we can thank the Pirates for signing Clint Barmes for making it possible.

I know I've always been thankful to the Rays for signing Trevor Miller...

[Mr. Happy]

If McCullars signs - we can thank the Pirates for signing Clint Barmes for making it possible.

And Barmes isn't hitting his own weight yet, and we're past the one-quarter mark.

[OregonStrosFan]

From Levine:

And from the "Just one of those things that is 'meant to be'" files?!?  Also from Levine (via Twitter):

Lance McCullers Jr. was the No. 41 overall pick in 2012. Lance McCullers Sr. was the No. 41 overall pick in 1982.

[Col. Sphinx Drummond]

And from the "Just one of those things that is 'meant to be'" files?!?  Also from Levine (via Twitter):

Lance McCullers Jr. was the No. 41 overall pick in 2012. Lance McCullers Sr. was the No. 41 overall pick in 1982.

McCullers Sr began his career at age 21 was washed out by age 29. Also probably made less in salary during his career than his son will get as a bonus.

[Navin R Johnson]

Carlos' interview with MLB network last night.

http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=22025399&topic_id&c_id=hou

[Ebby Calvin]

Carlos' interview with MLB network last night.

http://mlb.mlb.com/video/play.jsp?content_id=22025399&topic_id&c_id=hou

...first two people he mentions are Beltran and Yadier. Seems like a good kid regardless. Love the pick!

[Reuben]

any good place for a list of top guys remaining?

Here. All HS guys except for Fontana, a SS, and Wood, the LHP with the funky delivery.

[MusicMan]

...first two people he mentions are Beltran and Yadier. Seems like a good kid regardless. Love the pick!

Two of the highest-profile Puerto Ricans in the majors.  Makes sense.

[Ebby Calvin]

Two of the highest-profile Puerto Ricans in the majors.  Makes sense.

Yeah, I know, but still...the Mole and Necktat.  I thought it was funny.

[astrosfan76]

Here. All HS guys except for Fontana, a SS, and Wood, the LHP with the funky delivery.

I'd be surprised if Alford was picked any time soon, if at all.  He's going to be a 2-way player in college and has told teams not to draft him.  Doesn't seem to be a money play, either.

ETA:  On a side note, I am thrilled with the draft so far.  I think Correa will be a stud and McCullers has a big-time arm.  Great haul to this point.

[BudGirl]

If Boras weren't involved I would be more optimistic. He may even feel the Astros embarrassed him over Appel and try to even the score even though it wouldn't appear to be in his best interest.

Seems as though the Astros weren't the only ones who embarrassed him.

[Jacksonian]

This next pick should tell us whether they are going BPA all out or if they are trying to save some cash for McCullers.

[Bench]

Levine with a summary of the financial implications of the first two picks:

The Link

This does not mean each pick is capped at its recommended slot value. The Astros could spend more than $7.2 million on Correa (seemingly unlikely, just to speculate) or more than $1.26 million on McCullers (more likely).

They just cannot spend more than $11.2 million on the total of whichever of their first 11 picks do sign – the 11 picks being the top 10 rounds plus McCullers as a supplemental first round pick.

and

So if the Astros go slot for the next nine picks, whether they sign those or don’t sign those, they’ll have $8,458,700 to spend on Correa and McCullers.

That means that if they could get Correa to sign for $6.5 million, they could try to woo McCullers away from the University of Florida for closer to $2 million, which would be 60 percent above his slot value and in line with a mid-first-round pick. Or something to that effect. Scenarios like this are why teams and players have so many conversations before the draft, and while pre-draft deals are technically against the rules, they do happen.

[roadrunner]

How are rounds 11-40 governed?

[OregonStrosFan]

How are rounds 11-40 governed?

Any signing over $100K goes against a teams allotment.  This is also the case with NDFAs.  E.g., if the Astros sign their first 11 picks (1, 1S, 2-10) for $7.175M total, they will still have $1M or so left to their allotment that could be used to sign rd 11-40 picks (or NDFAs) for over $100K.

[Ebby Calvin]

Nolan Fontana, SS.

[Ron Brand]

Nolan Fontana, SS.

Another shortstop? What does this mean for Correa?

[/handwringing]

[MusicMan]

Another shortstop? What does this mean for Correa?

[/handwringing]

That you can never have enough up-the-middle talent.

[Bench]

Another shortstop? What does this mean for Correa?

[/handwringing]

Crane has overruled the baseball people and is refusing to pay Correa's slot money.  Fucking typical necktown gorvelshit. 

[moriartp]

BA on Fontana, who they had ranked #46: Reliable glove with patient offensive approach.

[Ebby Calvin]

PerfectGame Bio:

"Good MIF, exc arm, very good player, big time consistent, good at PG National, exc at WWBA, made 18U Team USA, Pedroia type player"

[MusicMan]

PerfectGame Bio:

"Good MIF, exc arm, very good player, big time consistent, good at PG National, exc at WWBA, made 18U Team USA, Pedroia type player"

Good lord, I thought that said he was a MILF.

[Ron Brand]

Crane has overruled the baseball people and is refusing to pay Correa's slot money.  Fucking typical necktown gorvelshit. 

THAT'S the answer I was looking for!

[Bench]

THAT'S the answer I was looking for!

Levine is trolling for that answer too:  Does taking a shortstop in the second round mean the Astros have no faith in Carlos Correa? Come on, somebody say it.

[pots]

Doesn't sound like a guy who would accept less than slot.  Must be they have enough for McCullers with what Correa will save them?

[juliogotay]

Last year's 2nd rounder was Houser. Is he pitching in short-season or something?

[jbm]

BA said second base was his most likely final destination.  

[jbm]

Doesn't sound like a guy who would accept less than slot.  Must be they have enough for McCullers with what Correa will save them?

I have no idea, but he is a four year senior. 

[pots]

I have no idea, but he is a four year senior. 

he's listed as JR on mlb

[jbm]

he's listed as JR on mlb

Sorry, my math was wrong.  They said he came to campus in 2009, which does make him a junior.

[Ron Brand]

Must be they have enough for McCullers with what Correa will save them?

Pieced together from two different articles, Luhnow said a) he was confident that they'd sign McCullers and b) they'd had discussions before the selection with 'his people' and they were comfortable with the number they'd received.

[Ebby Calvin]

More from PerfectGame:

In the end, Fontana plays the game with a lot of energy and enthusiasm, and is the type of player who will get every last ounce out of his natural ability. With his steady play over three years on a big stage at Florida, plus all his intangibles, he represents one of safest selections in this year’s college draft class and could advance quickly to the big leagues.

[BizidyDizidy]

How much dealings did the Co-ards have with Boras?

[Ron Brand]

Tweets last night said that Appel was shopping an $8MM price tag. Classic Boras.

[jbm]

How much dealings did the Co-ards have with Boras?

Is Beltran still a Boras guy?

[pots]

Tweets last night said that Appel was shopping an $8MM price tag. Classic Boras.

Read an article this morning that said he was asking in the 6s. 

[Ron Brand]

Maybe to the Twins.

[NeilT]

Another shortstop? What does this mean for Correa?

[/handwringing]

he's going to have to learn to throw lefthanded.

[MusicMan]

Tweets last night said that Appel was shopping an $8MM price tag. Classic Boras.

The more money Appel gets, the better.  Less for the Longhorn commits the Pirates are drafting.

[pots]

The more money Appel gets, the better.  Less for the Longhorn commits the Pirates are drafting.

Have to actually sign those commits to get the extra money though

[Ron Brand]

The more money Appel gets, the better.  Less for the Longhorn commits the Pirates are drafting.

Sorry, Miami.

[jbm]

The more money Appel gets, the better.  Less for the Longhorn commits the Pirates are drafting.

They were speculating this morning on MLB Radio that the Pirates just took him to not sign him and get the pick next year.  

[Navin R Johnson]

Seems like the system is finally filling up with some quality/upside MIFs now. Paredes,Villar, Mier, DDsJr, Correa, Fontana, Batista...

[moriartp]

Seems like the system is finally filling up with some quality/upside MIFs now. Paredes,Villar, Mier, DDsJr, Correa, Fontana, Batista...

Highest-$ international signing last year (Luis Reynoso) also a SS. IIRC the word was he projects to stay there.

[Navin R Johnson]

From the MLB site on Fontana.

"Take each of Fontana's tools individually and none of them may overwhelm you. Add them up and you'll like what you see a lot more. Fontana can swing the bat a little bit, showing a solid approach and an ability to make adjustments. He even has a little power to the pull side and will turn on a mistake. Fontana's instincts on the bases allow his average speed to play up and he does all of the little things offensively to help a team win. He's the same way on the other side of the ball, always putting himself in the right position to make the plays, with a solid arm and range and very good hands. Fontana could be a very good second baseman, a decent shortstop or the kind of super utility man championship-caliber teams tend to have. Whatever the case, his abilities and instincts should allow him to help a big league club out quickly."

[Navin R Johnson]

On the clock again...

[OregonStrosFan]

Read an article this morning that said he was asking in the 6s.

I'd seen "high $6Ms" and "above slot" bantered around regarding Appel's projected asking price.

[MusicMan]

Brady Rogers, RHP, Arizona State (hometown: Houston)

[Navin R Johnson]

Brady Rogers, RHP from ASU

[Navin R Johnson]

from MLB

Once the top-of-the-board college starters are taken, there's a very good group of advanced arms in the next tier, with Rodgers one of the most polished of that group. While he's not a soft-tosser -- his Major League average fastball will sit in the 90-91 mph range and he can reach back for a little more and maintain his velocity deep into starts -- Rodgers is more about the art of pitching than anything else. He has three secondary pitches that should at least average. Rodgers' slider is a sharp downer that can be a strikeout pitch and his changeup is very deceptive, with both looking like future above-average offerings. His curve isn't quite as good, but with a 12-to-5 break, it's more than just a show-me pitch. Rodgers throws all of those pitches for strikes and should have plus location down the line, showing outstanding knowledge of how to mix pitches. His ceiling might be the middle of a big league rotation, but it shouldn't take him too long to reach that goal.

[moriartp]

Two polished college players after the two young upside guys.

[Navin R Johnson]

ASU #s this year

10-3, 2.27 ERA , 115IP, 94H, 16BB, 79Ks, .225 BAA

[Navin R Johnson]

Rogers played on the Richmond/Rosenberg 2003 Little League World Series team.

[MusicMan]

Two polished college players after the two young upside guys.

Also, two seniors to ensure signability.

[OregonStrosFan]

Brady Rogers, RHP, Arizona State (hometown: Houston)

Random scouting report on Rodgers (LINK):

Fastball: 88-92 mph
Curveball: 81-85 mph
Changeup: 80-85 mph

[Navin R Johnson]

Good stuff on Rodgers from the Golden Spikes Award Website.

http://web.goldenspikesaward.com/index.html?page=news_archive&article_id=109

[Navin R Johnson]

Quote from the article linked above.

"The guy is so good. He's so complete -- four pitches for strikes, any count, competitive," UCLA coach John Savage said after facing Rodgers last week. "He's as good as there is out there in terms of pitchability and competitiveness. I can't say enough about him."

[moriartp]

Also, two seniors to ensure signability.

Both juniors.

[MusicMan]

Both juniors.

Really?  I misread that.

[moriartp]

Really?  I misread that.

I keep getting burned by BA's listing of college players as "4YR". Every time: "Another senior, wow!"

[GreatBagwellsBeard]

WTF is pitchability?

I mean, I get what it means, but must we keep coming up with "drinkability" neologisms constantly?

[Noe]

Quote from the article linked above.

"The guy is so good. He's so complete -- four pitches for strikes, any count, competitive," UCLA coach John Savage said after facing Rodgers last week. "He's as good as there is out there in terms of pitchability and competitiveness. I can't say enough about him."

I like guys who think and pitch like Greg Maddux. Very few manage to stick in the majors once they taste defeat (often). It is the ones who find the way to adjust when the league catches up with them that make it and become really good major leaguers.

[moriartp]

Brewers take Quintana. That creep can roll, man.

[Noe]

WTF is pitchability?

Pitchability: The ability to pitch and not just throw a baseball. The ability to pitch is defined by: Hitting locations. Mixing speeds. Getting ahead of the hitter to avoid having to pitch in too many "hitter's counts". The ability to get more groundballs to flyballs. Pitches to the lower half of the strikezone.

[Jacksonian]

Really loving this draft so far.

[Navin R Johnson]

4th rounder
   Ruiz, Rio    Bishop Amat HS, CA    3B

6'01" 180lbs DOB: 05/22/94 | Full Scouting ReportHe's from SoCal. He hits left-handed. It's not a real shock Ruiz gets Eric Chavez comps. Unfortunately for Ruiz, he became even more similar to the oft-injured Chavez in March when he had to undergo a procedure to break up a blood clot near his clavicle by his right shoulder.Ruiz has the tools to be an everyday Major League third baseman. He has a terrific left-handed swing, a short stroke with good bat speed. He makes consistent hard contact and there's more than enough loft and leverage for him to have good power at the next level. He's a solid, instinctive defender at third, with good lateral movement and a strong arm.Ruiz doesn't run well, but given his other skills, that doesn't matter so much. He doesn't need to run if he's going to develop into a run-producing third baseman as a professional. That potential should put him in many beginning-of-the-Draft conversations.

[roadrunner]

Rio Ruiz.  HS 3B.

[OregonStrosFan]

Rd. 4, pick 129: Rio Ruiz, Bishop Amat HS, CA, 3B, L/R, 6'01" 180lbs DOB: 05/22/94.

Mayo/Callis were commenting that his Sr. season was cut short because he had to have a blod clot removed from his neck in March.  Said but for this (i.e. that scouts didn't get much of a chance to see him this year), could very well have gone in the second round.  They also think he won't be a slot-money pick, and that HOU must think it has some extra money to sign him.

[astrosfan76]

Liking the Ruiz pic, also.  Sounds like he would have gone much higher if he had been healthy this season.  Lots of talent coming in so far.

[OregonStrosFan]

Really loving this draft so far.

Me as well!

[Noe]

They also think he won't be a slot-money pick, and that HOU must think it has some extra money to sign him.

Well, there is that discount money given back to Crane for agreeing to move to the AL.  Naaahhh!

[Twoniner]

  Between this draft so far and the Melancon deal,  I'm ready for the trade deadline.  

[MusicMan]

  Between this draft so far and the Melancon deal,  I'm ready for the trade deadline.   

Don't skip past us (hopefully) signing Soler this week.

[OregonStrosFan]

Liking the Ruiz pic, also.  Sounds like he would have gone much higher if he had been healthy this season.  Lots of talent coming in so far.

I like this pic a lot as well.  He's definitely not going to be a 'slot sign' though.  Committed to USC at 14 (LINK via Astros County).  Here's to hoping that Correa 'handshake agreement' was closer to $4M that $5M!!!

[roadrunner]

Don't skip past us (hopefully) signing Soler this week.

I've been keeping this in the back of my head the last couple of weeks.  What a month it would be for the organization if that happened.  I think Correa/McCullers/Soler would be the #1-3 prospects in the system followed by Singleton and Springer who have both had very encouraging starts to 2012.

But....let's not put the cart before the horse

[Navin R Johnson]

Ruiz is another Boras guy.  Ugh

[jbm]

Ruiz is another Boras guy.  Ugh

There goes my theory about playing signability guys against each other. 

[moriartp]

Ruiz is another Boras guy.  Ugh

If he signs, he signs.

[MusicMan]

If he signs, he signs.

Thank you, Comrade Drago.

[Navin R Johnson]

Andrew Aplin.  CF ASU

[Matt]

Brewers take Quintana. That creep can roll, man.

8 year olds, Dude.

[MusicMan]

Mayo: Great defense, fringy bat - floor of defensive sub, ceiling of regular CF

[astrosfan76]

On the season, Aplin's at .313/.392/.496.  He's walked 27 times and only struck out 13 in 230 AB.  He has 6 HR, 13 2B, 4 3B, and is 8-10 in steals.  Sounds like he could be a #2/#7-type hitter. 

[astrosfan76]

Looking at the BPA list, there are still 10 of the top 100 available, 7 HS, 1 JuCo, and 2 College.  I wonder how many of them are falling based on talent evaluation and how many are falling based on their pricetag and the new rules.

[moriartp]

6th rd: Brett Phillips, Florida HS CF.

The thing that stands out most about Phillips is his defense. He can play anywhere in the outfield and has incredible instincts, speed and arm strength. He has a quick, compact swing and handles the bat well, with the ability to hit the ball to all fields. He has pretty good bat speed and could develop some power in the future. Phillips is the type of maximum effort player that scouts love.

Maybe not signable says Mayo, but Astros are definitely going BPA here. BA ranked him #103, Astros took him at 189.

[Reuben]

BA's report:

A 6-foot-1, 185-pound outfielder, Phillips has a good profile as a lefthanded hitter who throws righthanded and has plus speed. His fast-twitch athleticism helped him become an all-county football player as a senior--the only year he played varsity. He's also raw on the baseball diamond but has plenty of tools, including perhaps the state's best throwing arm. Some scouts give him 70 grades on the 20-80 scale for his arm and his speed, though that's more often on his jailbreak swings. He should be an above-average center fielder with experience. Scouts' biggest questions center on his bat. Phillips uses the whole field, but scouts have to project to give him even average power. He uses more of a contact-oriented swing at this point, though he will show power in batting practice. Phillips had draft helium in May, and scouts were trying to judge his signability. He has committed to a resurgent North Carolina State program, which spirited a similar player, Trae Turner, out of Florida last spring. He may have to go in the first three rounds to keep him away from college.

[Reuben]

Interesting video at the bottom of this Top 100 list, with a guy from Perfect Game talking about Correa's fielding. Apparently they clocked one of his throws from SS to 1st at 97mph.

They ranked Correa #1 overall, FWIW, McCullers 12th, Fontana 51st, Rodgers 92nd.

[astrosfan76]

Interesting video at the bottom of this Top 100 list, with a guy from Perfect Game talking about Correa's fielding. Apparently they clocked one of his throws from SS to 1st at 97mph.

They ranked Correa #1 overall, FWIW, McCullers 12th, Fontana 51st, Rodgers 92nd.

Phillips was #103 on BA's list.

[Reuben]

Phillips was #103 on BA's list.

Yep, and Rio Ruiz was #98 (picked at 129 by Astros). Here's a snippet from BA's report:

Ruiz projects as a third baseman in pro ball, and his sure hands, good instincts and body control give him a chance to be an average to plus defender despite his lack of lateral mobility. He is a below-average runner but owns an above-average arm, and he has touched 94-95 off the mound. Scouts like Ruiz's lefthanded swing, quick hands and bat speed, but his approach needs refinement, as he has a tendency to dive out over the plate at times. He has flashed plus raw power, and he projects as an average hitter with average to plus game power.

Levine already has a piece up on him, talking about his uncertain signability

[Navin R Johnson]

Preston Tucker OF, U of Florida

[moriartp]

Preston Tucker OF, U of Florida

There's a senior.

[Navin R Johnson]

In a year where affordable college seniors might get a long look early in Drafts, Tucker is one who many teams have paid attention to. Playing for one of the best college teams in the country with other top-notch Draft talent, Tucker has continue to show his one plus tool: power. The left-handed hitter can flat-out mash, especially to the pull side. With good bat speed, he's shown some aptitude as a hitter, but it remains to be seen if he can continue to make adjustments in order to become a better all-around hitter, not to mention making enough contact to tap into that power. He's an average right fielder with a pretty good arm, though his lack of speed limits his range a bit. Playing first would add to his positional flexibility. In the end, though, the team that takes him will be buying his bat. He should improve on his Draft slot from when the Rockies took him (16th round) a year ago.

[hostros7]

In a year where affordable college seniors might get a long look early in Drafts, Tucker is one who many teams have paid attention to. Playing for one of the best college teams in the country with other top-notch Draft talent, Tucker has continue to show his one plus tool: power. The left-handed hitter can flat-out mash, especially to the pull side. With good bat speed, he's shown some aptitude as a hitter, but it remains to be seen if he can continue to make adjustments in order to become a better all-around hitter, not to mention making enough contact to tap into that power. He's an average right fielder with a pretty good arm, though his lack of speed limits his range a bit. Playing first would add to his positional flexibility. In the end, though, the team that takes him will be buying his bat. He should improve on his Draft slot from when the Rockies took him (16th round) a year ago.

Fortunately, the Astros are going to have this thing called a DH.  I heard it's for people who might be able to mash but suck at fielding.

[OregonStrosFan]

Via MLB Trade Rumors (LINK):

First rounder Mark Appel and his representatives at the Boras Corporation turned down a $6MM offer from the Astros, Tom Krasovic of Inside the Padres reports... The Pirates selected Appel eighth overall, which means his recommended bonus is $2.9MM ...

[astrosfan76]

Not a bad pick if we were going College Senior.  I'm still holding out hope that we can pick the best name in the draft, Skye Bolt.

[Reuben]

BA ranked Tucker 233. The report concludes with:

At worst, Tucker should anchor a Triple-A lineup down the line and get some big league cups of coffee thanks to his bat. At best, he could be a second-division regular in the Brian Daubach mold.

[OregonStrosFan]

Not a bad pick if we were going College Senior.  I'm still holding out hope that we can pick the best name in the draft, Skye Bolt.

The Cubs already got the best Cub name in the draft: Pierce Johnson

[astrosfan76]

The Cubs already got the best Cub name in the draft: Pierce Johnson

Fill out this form sir, last name first.

[MusicMan]

The Cubs already got the best Cub name in the draft: Pierce Johnson

Well, sounds like he should have gone to LA with Prince Albert.

[OregonStrosFan]

Round 8, pick 250: Tyler Heineman - C (B/R), UCLA (JR)

[Navin R Johnson]

So through 8 rounds.

4 HSers. 4 College Juniors, 1 College Senior.  2 SS, 2 RHP, 2 CF, 1 LF, 1 3B, 1 C.   Seems a little light on pitching so far.

[Reuben]

Ranked #263 by BA:

After playing sparingly for two years as Steve Rodriguez's backup, Heineman assumed the everyday job this spring and had a breakout season. He hit over .400 deep into the season before cooling off late. With a stocky 5-foot-10 build that evokes Mike LaValliere or a Molina brother, Heineman is a hard-working, blue-collar player with a passion for the game. He's not a polished receiver but projects as an average defender with enough quickness to block balls in the dirt effectively. He handles pitchers well and controls the running game, thanks to an average arm and a quick transfer and release. Offensively, Heineman is a switch-hitter with a contact approach from both sides. He sprays the ball around the field and doesn't strike out often, but he doesn't offer any power. He profiles as a solid backup catcher in the big leagues.

[Navin R Johnson]

By region.  4 FL, 2 AZ, 2 CA, 1 PR.

[Navin R Johnson]

Round 9, pick 279:  Daniel Minor RHP Texas A&M CC

[moriartp]

10/309: Joe Bircher, LHP, senior at Bradley University. #421 on BA 500.

[Mr. Happy]

Jim Bowden just tweeted that some reporter for the Padres is saying that Boras turned down the Astros offer of $6 mil for Appel, which is why they went elsewhere.

[Noe]

Interesting video at the bottom of this Top 100 list, with a guy from Perfect Game talking about Correa's fielding. Apparently they clocked one of his throws from SS to 1st at 97mph.

They ranked Correa #1 overall, FWIW, McCullers 12th, Fontana 51st, Rodgers 92nd.

Hmmmm... someone should put that video on the SnS homepage. I know, "there is a home page?".

BTW - the guy is David Rawnsley, one of the best talent evaluators out there and once the head of scouting for the Astros (back in the days of Bagwell and Biggio being in the minors)

[Jacksonian]

Jim Bowden just tweeted that some reporter for the Padres is saying that Boras turned down the Astros offer of $6 mil for Appel, which is why they went elsewhere.

The Pirates' budget is $6,563,500.  If they go over by $328,175 they pay 75% tax on the overage and lose a first round pick.  Of course Boras doesn't care about the Pirates.  The fallout from this new slot system is going to be fun to watch.

[OregonStrosFan]

Jim Bowden just tweeted that some reporter for the Padres is saying that Boras turned down the Astros offer of $6 mil for Appel, which is why they went elsewhere.

Pirates (team that drafted Appel) reporter maybe?

Via MLB Trade Rumors (LINK):

First rounder Mark Appel and his representatives at the Boras Corporation turned down a $6MM offer from the Astros, Tom Krasovic of Inside the Padres reports... The Pirates selected Appel eighth overall, which means his recommended bonus is $2.9MM ...

[accougars]

The Pirates' budget is $6,563,500.  If they go over by $328,175 they pay 75% tax on the overage and lose a first round pick.  Of course Boras doesn't care about the Pirates.  The fallout from this new slot system is going to be fun to watch.

It certainly seems to take away a good amount of Boras' power.

Also, how many guys drafted tomorrow will sign for 99,999.99?

[OregonStrosFan]

Astros 11th round pick (339):  LHP   Hunter Virant, Camarillo (Calif.) HS.  BA Had him listed as the 53rd best prospect in the draft.

[accougars]

10/309: Joe Bircher, LHP, senior at Bradley University. #421 on BA 500.

Here is some good stuff on Bircher

http://www.pjstar.com/sports/x43415493/Bradley-lefty-Joe-Bircher-masters-his-craft

[moriartp]

Law says the Astros never made an offer to Appel.

Astros reporters are saying they hope to have Correa signed by the end of the week. He'll be in Houston Thursday for a physical. Once he signs, he'll apparently head to the GCL. Let's hope he gets promoted to the Appy League quickly!

[OregonStrosFan]

Round 12 (pick 369): Terrell Joyce, LF, Florida State Col, FL (J2), R/R, 6'03", 230lbs, DOB: 05/29/92

[accougars]

Astros 11th round pick (339):  LHP   Hunter Virant, Camarillo (Calif.) HS.  BA Had him listed as the 53rd best prospect in the draft.

Here is a bit on Virant. Be careful it is bleacherreport

http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1203531-hunter-virant-to-houston-astros-video-highlights-scouting-report-and-analysis

[accougars]

Round 9, pick 279:  Daniel Minor RHP Texas A&M CC

I could not find anything on Minor. He appears to be an undersized righty with an agressive approach. He also went from jc to a&m CC, so he could be a cap friendly pick.

[roadrunner]

Law says the Astros never made an offer to Appel.

Astros reporters are saying they hope to have Correa signed by the end of the week. He'll be in Houston Thursday for a physical. Once he signs, he'll apparently head to the GCL. Let's hope he gets promoted to the Appy League quickly!

Not a formal offer.  You have conversations with the player's group to get an idea of what he would sign for.

[Noe]

Not a formal offer.  You have conversations with the player's group to get an idea of what he would sign for.

Something like this:

Luhnow: "So Scott, what are we looking at here?"
Devil: "8 million"
Luhnow: "What?"
Devil: "Okay, 7 million"
Luhnow: "I'm sorry, still didn't hear correctly... what?"
Devil: "Okay, my bottomline: 6 million!"
Luhnow: "Look at the time, I have to go. See ya"

[pots]

from mlbtr:

Astros Expect To Sign Correa By Thursday
By Zach Links [June 5 at 5:52pm CST]
General Manager Jeff Luhnow said that the Astros expect to sign first-overall pick Carlos Correa by Thursday, according to Brian McTaggart of MLB.com (via Twitter).  The high school shortstop was tabbed by Houston after the club also considered Stanford right-hander Mark Appel and other top prospects.

The deal is expected to be worth roughly $5MM, sources tell Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com.  The Astros were considering a few other options very late in the game as one source told Heyman that the decision "came down to the last thirty seconds.''
 

[cougar]

Five million, when combined with the other possible less than slot guys and the possiblity of Crane willing to pay the tax and go over the pool limit short of losing a draft pick (which I read somewhere is a little more than another half million, no idea if that is accurate), is going to leave quite a bit in the pot for the McCullers and Ruizes of the world.  If we some how, some way get all 11 (and maybe even Virant) to sign, I'm pretty sure that we'd stop hearing about how we have the "worst minor league system in baseball".  Yeah that actually stopped after the trade deadline last year, but you know what I mean.

BTW, coming from a guy who's never really focused on pitching deliveries does it seem like MCullers' delivery put a lot of torque on his wrist and elbow?  It looks like he really tries to snap his wrist to put an extra bit of...something... on the ball.  Maybe I'm just imagining things.

[Duder]

Looks like 6th rounder Brett Phillips will sign.

Money quote:

Phillips, an outfielder, said he will decline the scholarship offer from North Carolina State and sign with the Astros in the next few days. He also said there were teams willing to pick him in the fourth and fifth rounds, but they were unable to sign him for the amount the Astros offered.

[roadrunner]

Finally got a chance to catch up on today's draft.  I love it.  Luhnow & co seemed to really do their homework on the new system and take advantage of it.  It will be interesting to see how all the chips fall with signing these guys.

[Mark Arm]

So this is what it looks like when Bobby Heck is let off the leash.

[Reuben]

Hmmmm... someone should put that video on the SnS homepage. I know, "there is a home page?".

BTW - the guy is David Rawnsley, one of the best talent evaluators out there and once the head of scouting for the Astros (back in the days of Bagwell and Biggio being in the minors)

I didn't know that, cool.

[Navin R Johnson]

writer for Tampa Bay Times tweets the following.

LauraHomeTeam Also maybe interesting to #Gators fans: @LMcCullers_23 spoke with Sullivan today. Sullie said he understood & asked him to keep him updated 41 minutes ago · reply · retweet · favorite
LauraHomeTeam profile

LauraHomeTeam Story coming soon, but all signs point to @JesuitBaseball P @LMcCullers_23 being optimistic about reaching a deal with the #Astros #MLBDraft


Eggggggggzzzellent.

[OregonStrosFan]

Article LINK

writer for Tampa Bay Times tweets the following.

LauraHomeTeam Also maybe interesting to #Gators fans: @LMcCullers_23 spoke with Sullivan today. Sullie said he understood & asked him to keep him updated 41 minutes ago · reply · retweet · favorite
LauraHomeTeam profile

LauraHomeTeam Story coming soon, but all signs point to @JesuitBaseball P @LMcCullers_23 being optimistic about reaching a deal with the #Astros #MLBDraft

[OregonStrosFan]

I might have missed this earlier in the thread, but OutSTANDing piece on Correa: LINK

[Fynn]

I might have missed this earlier in the thread, but OutSTANDing piece on Correa: LINK

Sounds like the plot for a film....again, outstanding.

[subnuclear]

They should label SAT scores to make sure old people know they include a writing section.

[BizidyDizidy]

Right - 1560 = 1040 = even less on "old" scale

[roadrunner]

I don't mean to take a dig at Ed Wade and Tal Smith, but I don't know how to finish this post without doing so and still making my point. 

But can you imagine how this draft would've gone with them at the helm under the new rules?  Make fun of Luhnow, sabermetrics, etc. all you want but it seems like these guys were built to tackle complex situations like this.

[hostros7]

Right - 1560 = 1040 = even less on "old" scale

1040 may be good enough to get him into ivies/duke/vandy/stanfords of the world with his skill.  Frankly, I'm impressed after reading the article osf linked above

[Ebby Calvin]

I might have missed this earlier in the thread, but OutSTANDing piece on Correa: LINK

Thanks for that.

[BizidyDizidy]

Definitely in the general ballpark for the #1 in the nation

[subnuclear]

1040 may be good enough to get him into ivies/duke/vandy/stanfords of the world with his skill.  Frankly, I'm impressed after reading the article osf linked above

I'm not saying he's stupid, its just a lot of people might attribute a lot more meaning to it because they don't know the test has changed (more than once).

[hostros7]

I'm not saying he's stupid, its just a lot of people might attribute a lot more meaning to it because they don't know the test has changed (more than once).

I didn't think you were, and writers should include X score on an X scale for really any and all metrics to provide context. 

My point was also just to provide some context for these super talented players at even the toughest institutions.  I went on a "recruiting visit" to an ivy league school, and I was floored when the captain of the team told me he was accepted with a 1050 on the SAT (1600 scale).  The specifics escape me, but he told me he had to retake the test to get in and score above X (insert comparatively low score) threshold on the verbal.  This was not even a relative powerhouse program along the lines of Princeton lax, Penn/Princeton basketball, etc.  I can't even begin to relate the intellectual ineptitude of the hockey team at the school where I eventually ended up.

Correa seems like a great kid.  Happy to hear his in the organization, and I hope he keeps grinding. 

[BizidyDizidy]

I didn't think you were, and writers should include X score on an X scale for really any and all metrics to provide context. 

My point was also just to provide some context for these super talented players at even the toughest institutions.  I went on a "recruiting visit" to an ivy league school, and I was floored when the captain of the team told me he was accepted with a 1050 on the SAT (1600 scale).  The specifics escape me, but he told me he had to retake the test to get in and score above X (insert comparatively low score) threshold on the verbal.  This was not even a relative powerhouse program along the lines of Princeton lax, Penn/Princeton basketball, etc.  I can't even begin to relate the intellectual ineptitude of the hockey team at the school where I eventually ended up.

Correa seems like a great kid.  Happy to hear his in the organization, and I hope he keeps grinding. 

There are many athletes who cannot get into Stanford academically who end up at the Ivies. Duke will take NCAA qualifiers if they are good enough.

[pots]

I don't mean to take a dig at Ed Wade and Tal Smith, but I don't know how to finish this post without doing so and still making my point.  

But can you imagine how this draft would've gone with them at the helm under the new rules?  Make fun of Luhnow, sabermetrics, etc. all you want but it seems like these guys were built to tackle complex situations like this.

Honestly the credit needs to go to the new CBA draft rules.  The Yankees and Red Sox can not buy guys like they could before.  This allowed Houston and other teams that had a bigger pool to get more talent than they could of in past years.  Don't get me wrong, what team Luhnow did with their allotment bordered on pure genius, but had this been last years CBA, it could not have been done. Mccullers was the best player available by far for many picks and only Houston had the money left to sign him.

I'm a huge fan of the new draft rules.  It eliminates the need for a salary cap.  

ETA: It is really isn't possible to compare a draft prior under the Wade regime with the Luhnow regime.  Though they are quite similar.  Up the middle guy first then high school arm.

[Bench]

Honestly the credit needs to go to the new CBA draft rules.  The Yankees and Red Sox can not buy guys like they could before.  This allowed Houston and other teams that had a bigger pool to get more talent than they could of in past years.  Don't get me wrong, what team Luhnow did with their allotment bordered on pure genius, but had this been last years CBA, it could not have been done. Mccullers was the best player available by far for many picks and only Houston had the money left to sign him.

I'm a huge fan of the new draft rules.  It eliminates the need for a salary cap.  

I think you summed it up very well but I would add that to a bunch of analytically inclined numbers people (like Sig Mejdal) the "complicated" structure of the new slots is right in their wheelhouse, much more so than the Ed Wades of the world.

ETA:  Or as Levine more succinctly put it: For an Astros FO with so many math guys, this draft bonus stuff is a pretty simple math problem.

[BizidyDizidy]

Right - this really isn't that fucking complicated.

[geezerdonk]

Where will Correa go when he signs?

[hostros7]

There are many athletes who cannot get into Stanford academically who end up at the Ivies. Duke will take NCAA qualifiers if they are good enough.

I'm not familiar with Stanford's recruiting policies, but my assumption is that this is largely due to the fact that Stanford has a far superior athletic program, rather than more selective admissions than ivies (I think the admissions are fairly comparable.).  Therefore, they can turn away a 1250 SAT pretty good athlete because they have a great athlete that wants to attend Stanford who scored a 1300 or higher.  The Ivy schools will take the 1250 pretty good guy because he's relatively better at sports than pretty much anyone else they have on their radar.  

And, on a tangentially related topic, the Astros drafted a Dartmouth guy, Joe Sclafani (SS), in the 14th round.  

[Bench]

Right - this really isn't that fucking complicated.

I'm sure it is to Ed Wade.

[hostros7]

Where will Correa go when he signs?

via mortiap

Astros reporters are saying they hope to have Correa signed by the end of the week. He'll be in Houston Thursday for a physical. Once he signs, he'll apparently head to the GCL. Let's hope he gets promoted to the Appy League quickly!

[jbm]

Yes, it appears that Luhnow and company are doing a good job, but I don't get the "Ed Wade couldn't have done this."  It really wasn't rocket science:  a bunch of guys were relatively equal, play them against each other to get a good price, use the money saved for players other teams can't afford.  Most people do this in their lives every day.

Besides, we won't know if the scouting evaluations of these guys pan out for many years.  

[BizidyDizidy]

I'm not familiar with Stanford's recruiting policies, but my assumption is that this is largely due to the fact that Stanford has a far superior athletic program, rather than more selective admissions than ivies (I think the admissions are fairly comparable.).  Therefore, they can turn away a 1250 SAT pretty good athlete because they have a great athlete that wants to attend Stanford who scored a 1300 or higher.  The Ivy schools will take the 1250 pretty good guy because he's relatively better at sports than pretty much anyone else they have on their radar.  

And, on a tangentially related topic, the Astros drafted a Dartmouth guy, Joe Sclafani (SS), in the 14th round.  

Actually, it happens to guys they really want - constant interplay between admissions and athletics. Admissions mandate is make sure to only admit kids that can really be contributors to their class.

They do take into account circumstance though - Correa, for example, would have a much better chance getting in from his background than a similar player/student at an elite private school.

[pots]

Yes, it appears that Luhnow and company are doing a good job, but I don't get the "Ed Wade couldn't have done this."  It really wasn't rocket science:  a bunch of guys were relatively equal, play them against each other to get a good price, use the money saved for players other teams can't afford.  Most people do this in their lives every day.

Besides, we won't know if the scouting evaluations of these guys pan out for many years.  

Agree.  To further the point:
Castro then Lyles
Mier then Bushue
DeShields then Folty
Springer then Houser
Correa then McCullers

They drafted no differently.  The new rules just allowed for better picks throughout the draft

[NeilT]

When my daughter took the SAT seven years ago, the routine was to ignore the writing section (because most colleges did) and report your score as the two number composite.  My son four years ago was still doing the same.  It's at least possible that the 1560 is ignoring the writing score, and the kid is pretty damn smart.

He sounds like a great kid either way.

[Noe]

I don't mean to take a dig at Ed Wade and Tal Smith, but I don't know how to finish this post without doing so and still making my point. 

But can you imagine how this draft would've gone with them at the helm under the new rules?  Make fun of Luhnow, sabermetrics, etc. all you want but it seems like these guys were built to tackle complex situations like this.

"Screw you, have you ever worked for Drayton McLane and Pam Gardner? NO?!?! Then STFU!" - Ed Wade (BTW - Tal Smith is a sabermatrician)

[Noe]

Yes, it appears that Luhnow and company are doing a good job, but I don't get the "Ed Wade couldn't have done this."  It really wasn't rocket science:  a bunch of guys were relatively equal, play them against each other to get a good price, use the money saved for players other teams can't afford.  Most people do this in their lives every day.

Besides, we won't know if the scouting evaluations of these guys pan out for many years.  

And Tal Smith too. He is known as the best at working numbers in arbitration cases. I bet it would surprise him to know his sabrematrician skills are being called into account.

[subnuclear]

When my daughter took the SAT seven years ago, the routine was to ignore the writing section (because most colleges did) and report your score as the two number composite.  My son four years ago was still doing the same.  It's at least possible that the 1560 is ignoring the writing score, and the kid is pretty damn smart.

Yes, I've seen people do that, too, which is why its confusing. If he got a 1560/1600 after only speaking English for 3 years he'd be up there with Barzilla.

[jbm]

Yes, I've seen people do that, too, which is why its confusing. If he got a 1560/1600 after only speaking English for 3 years he'd be up there with Barzilla.

This never crossed my mind before, but is the test only in English? 

[Ebby Calvin]

This never crossed my mind before, but is the test only in English?  

According to this random website, yes.

[pots]

Yes, I've seen people do that, too, which is why its confusing. If he got a 1560/1600 after only speaking English for 3 years he'd be up there with Barzilla.

You don't see any Americans winning spelling bees

[Bench]

You don't see any Americans winning spelling bees

Except for just about every winner of the Scripps Spelling Bee?

[subnuclear]

You don't see any Americans winning spelling bees

Most of them are 2nd generation, though, right? Or from South Asia where English is spoken by 200M+ people?

[Bench]

Most of them are 2nd generation, though, right? Or from South Asia where English is spoken by 200M+ people?

[Removed obnoxiousness]

ETA: Winners.  There was a kid from Jamaica who won in 1988 but the rest appear to be American.

[OregonStrosFan]

I'm a huge fan of the new draft rules.  It eliminates the need for a salary cap. 

There are a number of things that I like in the new system.  I am concerned, however, about the HUGE disparity between money allotments even between 1.1 and 1.4 ($3M / roughly 40%). I think the delta here needs to be paired down some...

[pots]

You don't see any Americans winning spelling bees

Sorry, this was a poor characterization.  They are Americans.  However I believe many of them learned English as a second or in a dual language household.  

[OregonStrosFan]

Right - this really isn't that fucking complicated.

The complication isn't in the math - its in that there are a TON of moving parts...  I've been very impressed with the way they've played this!

[Bench]

Sorry, this was a poor characterization.  They are Americans.  However I believe many of them learned English as a second or in a dual language household

Thanks for the clarification. 

[jbm]

There are a number of things that I like in the new system.  I am concerned, however, about the HUGE disparity between money allotments even between 1.1 and 1.4 ($3M / roughly 40%). I think the delta here needs to be paired down some...

It does seem like a flaw given this year's class.  However, if there was an individual who was clearly 1-1 worthy, the disparity would seem more reasonable.  

[OregonStrosFan]

It does seem like a flaw given this year's class.  However, if there was an individual who was clearly 1-1 worthy, the disparity would seem more reasonable. 

IIRC, this delta is going to change some in the 2013 and 2014 drafts. Just too lazy to go back and read all that crap right now...

[Jacksonian]

Round 16 - Dan Gulbransen, LF, JR from Jacksonville
Round 17 - Aaron West, RHP, SR from Washington

[jbm]

The complication isn't in the math - its in that there are a TON of moving parts...  I've been very impressed with the way they've played this!

Most of the moving parts are essentially information.  Information about the price of each potential draftee.  We do not yet know if the Astros nailed that part of the process, although they are acting as if they did.  Let's hope so.  

[NeilT]

Yes, I've seen people do that, too, which is why its confusing. If he got a 1560/1600 after only speaking English for 3 years he'd be up there with Barzilla.

If he got a 1560 out of 2400 after only speaking English 3 years he's doing all right by me.

[OregonStrosFan]

Most of the moving parts are essentially information.  Information about the price of each potential draftee.  We do not yet know if the Astros nailed that part of the process, although they are acting as if they did.  Let's hope so.

As I watch the process, and the way the pieces are falling, it reminds me a lot of the 15-20 party settlement negotiations I've been part of.  The parts are 'information' - and there is a ton of it to evaluate.  There are parts though that are just 'gut feeling' (based on the knowledge accumulated), and 'seeing' the way that things 'could' fall (and having back-up back-up back-up plans when the various parties deviate from the 'plan').  Regardless of final outcome, I am VERY pleased to see 'how' Luhnow and crew played this - hopefully it will work out as they've mapped it out!

[pots]

Thanks for the clarification. 

My point in my head was, it is easier to learn correct English when you aren't surrounded by a slang use of it.  But it came out as bigoted

[Mike S.]

I didn't know that, cool.

While he was working for BA, Rawnsley also had some rather unkind, although not unwarranted, things to say regarding the Astros skimping on the draft by continually taking college seniors far more often than (more expensive) college juniors and high school players. One of the only journalists to actually call out the organization on that point, if I recall correctly.

[Noe]

While he was working for BA, Rawnsley also had some rather unkind, although not unwarranted, things to say regarding the Astros skimping on the draft by continually taking college seniors far more often than (more expensive) college juniors and high school players. One of the only journalists to actually call out the organization on that point, if I recall correctly.

Yup. I think Rawnsley is one of the best if not the best at running evaluations of high school and college players. He was adamant his group does "shoe leather" evaluations, meaning they go see the player and not just pour over numbers.

[moriartp]

22 rounds in, 5 high school players. New rules!

[moriartp]

Don't know if this got posted already, but Tom Krasovic retracted his story on Appel:

"UDPATE: Another MLB source says the Astros and Mark Appel's camp had no financial discussions, giving zero credence to today's earlier post. "

[jbm]

Don't know if this got posted already, but Tom Krasovic retracted story on Appel: UDPATE: Another MLB source says the Astros and Mark Appel's camp had no financial discussions, giving zero credence to today's earlier post.

I'm going to reserve judgement until he changes his story a few more times. 

[MusicMan]

I'm going to reserve judgement until he changes his story a few more times. 

Those responsible for sacking those responsible for the story have been sacked.

[Ron Brand]

Don't know if this got posted already, but Tom Krasovic retracted his story on Appel:

"UDPATE: Another MLB source says the Astros and Mark Appel's camp had no financial discussions, giving zero credence to today's earlier post. "

No reason other than he's Satan and the timing of other reports that came out earlier, but I always thought the +/-$6MM story that came out after was just Boras' damage control.

[Navin R Johnson]

Another reason to never trust a writer who starts his story with, "MLB source says..."

Being first, is way more important to journalist these days, than being right.

[chuck]

From what I've read it seems to me that if you were to canvass the globe looking for a 17 year old to whom you could give $5MM without fucking him up for life Correa might well be the kid you'd find.

[moriartp]

Another reason to never trust a writer who starts his story with, "MLB source says..."

Being first, is way more important to journalist these days, than being right.

At least in this case he came out and said he'd gotten it wrong. Seems like a lot of the time they wouldn't even bother.

[Reuben]

Another reason to never trust a writer who starts his story with, "MLB source says..."
...

Which is still loads better than the old "there are some who say...", JDJO's favorite agenda-fueling ploy.

[Navin R Johnson]

At least in this case he came out and said he'd gotten it wrong. Seems like a lot of the time they wouldn't even bother.

I do agree with that, but I am guessing the # of people who heard the initial "report" is less than heard the retraction.  It will end up as Boras folklore.   

[Ebby Calvin]

From what I've read it seems to me that if you were to canvass the globe looking for a 17 year old to whom you could give $5MM without fucking him up for life Correa might well be the kid you'd find.

Agree, and well said.

[moriartp]

Astros take CJ Hinojosa (Klein Collins shortstop) in the 26th round. He was ranked #70 by BA and he's committed to UT, so I'm guessing he's a long shot to sign.

[OregonStrosFan]

Astros take CJ Hinojosa (Klein Collins shortstop) in the 26th round. He was ranked #70 by BA and he's committed to UT, so I'm guessing he's a long shot to sign.

Via Astros County post (LINK):

Here's some background on Hinojosa's Texas/Not-Texas back-and-forth. His father asked him what it would take to get him out of his commitment to Texas, and he said: “I asked him, ‘So what are you feeling?’ and his response to me was, ‘If I don’t get [2011 No. 8 overall pick] Francisco Lindor money [$2.9 million], then there’s no question I’m going to Texas,”


Good luck with that kid...

[moriartp]

Via Astros County post (LINK):

Here's some background on Hinojosa's Texas/Not-Texas back-and-forth. His father asked him what it would take to get him out of his commitment to Texas, and he said: “I asked him, ‘So what are you feeling?’ and his response to me was, ‘If I don’t get [2011 No. 8 overall pick] Francisco Lindor money [$2.9 million], then there’s no question I’m going to Texas,”


Good luck with that kid...

And MLB.com says he was planning to head to UT in January but for whatever reason stayed in high school that last semester. I think we can go ahead and say he's not signing.

[pots]

Just got done with a self-tortue Kieth Law video.  Says the new CBA rules didn't come close to adding parity.  Uses the fact Appel fell to 8th, and that several talented high schoolers fell to the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th rounds as his reasoning.  He says that it did not help the have-nots.  

WTF? excuse me?    Appel fell to the Pirates.  Are they not are card carrying member of the have-nots?  In the same conversation he mentioned the Astros got a few of the top 30 talented players.  I thought the Astros were 27th out of 30?  How does ths guy have a job?

[pots]

And MLB.com says he was planning to head to UT in January but for whatever reason stayed in high school that last semester. I think we can go ahead and say he's not signing.

Could be back up in case one of the other tough sign drafts fail

[MusicMan]

Via Astros County post (LINK):

Here's some background on Hinojosa's Texas/Not-Texas back-and-forth. His father asked him what it would take to get him out of his commitment to Texas, and he said: “I asked him, ‘So what are you feeling?’ and his response to me was, ‘If I don’t get [2011 No. 8 overall pick] Francisco Lindor money [$2.9 million], then there’s no question I’m going to Texas,”


Good luck with that kid...

If you're going to anticipate having extra bonus pool money (a la Virant) then why not pick several guys you might give it to?  It gives you a little more leverage.

[MusicMan]

Just got done with a self-tortue Kieth Law video.

  How does ths guy have a job?

Because you clicked on it.

[S.P. Rodriguez]

 How does ths guy have a job?

There's a saying I learned at my previous job, "It's easy to soar like an eagle when you are surrounded by turkeys", which seems an appropriate response to your question.  

[Mike S.]

Yup. I think Rawnsley is one of the best if not the best at running evaluations of high school and college players. He was adamant his group does "shoe leather" evaluations, meaning they go see the player and not just pour over numbers.

Those drafts were excruciating to behold.

[Reuben]

If you're going to anticipate having extra bonus pool money (a la Virant) then why not pick several guys you might give it to?  It gives you a little more leverage.

Exactly, unless they somehow really feel like they'll be setting themselves back by not drafting quite as many roster-filler guys in the later rounds, I'd expect them to do this. With the draft now cut to 40 rounds instead of 45-50, who knows, but I'd assume we'll just see more signings of NDFA's afterwards.

[jbm]

That brings up a question:  how are NDFA signings handled?  Can you spend as much as you like, or is the bonus treated like signings from rounds 11-40?  Seems like it must be handled as rounds 11-40 or the obvious strategy for certain players would be try like hell not to be drafted so they can receive a larger bonus.  Also, the timing of the NDFA signings, if they are wrapped into the draft bonus pools, would appear to be create problems.

[OregonStrosFan]

That brings up a question:  how are NDFA signings handled?  Can you spend as much as you like, or is the bonus treated like signings from rounds 11-40?  Seems like it must be handled as rounds 11-40 or the obvious strategy for certain players would be try like hell not to be drafted so they can receive a larger bonus.  Also, the timing of the NDFA signings, if they are wrapped into the draft bonus pools, would appear to be create problems.

NDFA signings can be applied against a team's bonus pool.  Off the top of my head though, I can't remember if it is any amount over $100,000 that counts against a team's bonus pool, or simply any amount paid to a NDFA (though I *think* it is any amount over $100K).

[moriartp]

NDFA signings can be applied against a team's bonus pool.  Off the top of my head though, I can't remember if it is any amount over $100,000 that counts against a team's bonus pool, or simply any amount paid to a NDFA (though I *think* it is any amount over $100K).

Pretty sure it's anything over $100k.

[Reuben]

I found a really long article profiling some different NDFA's currently in MLB (as of 2010, when the article's from). Interesting list of past NDFA's:

That's the path once traveled by the likes of Larry Parrish, Dan Quisenberry, Kevin Mitchell, Bobby Bonilla, Jim Leyritz, Mike Bordick and Kevin Millar, among others.

Didn't see any mention of a cap on signings, but you'd think there'd have to be one now.

[Bench]

Berman Levine and McTaggart are all reporting the club has a verbal agreement with Correa.  That was quick.

[Reuben]

Berman Levine and McTaggart are all reporting the club has a verbal agreement with Correa.  That was quick.

I thought that was pretty much assumed the minute they drafted him. Not to mention the reports that he's coming to MMPUS Thursday and they expect to get his contract signed then...

[Reuben]

Footer tweeting that Brady Rodgers (rd 3) is about to sign his contract, family in tow. I wouldn't be surprised if he went for a little below slot.

[juliogotay]

Footer tweeting that Brady Rodgers (rd 3) is about to sign his contract, family in tow. I wouldn't be surprised if he went for a little below slot.

He has signed and is in Houston tonight. Luhnow on pre-game show saying he thinks he will move quickly thru the minors.

[roadrunner]

Boras not happy with the new system: http://mlb.sbnation.com/2012/6/6/3069073/scott-boras-2012-mlb-draft

[cougar]

Boras not happy with the new system: http://mlb.sbnation.com/2012/6/6/3069073/scott-boras-2012-mlb-draft

Cry me a fuckin' river, Satan.  Can't bend teams over the negotiating table as much any more, can you?  Kiss my ass.

[Reuben]

Boras not happy with the new system: http://mlb.sbnation.com/2012/6/6/3069073/scott-boras-2012-mlb-draft

As if we didn't already love how this draft went enough.

[MusicMan]

More potential good news for Astros/bad news for Horns:

Hinojosa has until mid-July to decide whether to sign with the Astros or proceed with plans to attend Texas this fall. He said his adviser in the matter will be local agent Peter Vescovo.

“I honestly don’t know,” Hinojosa said. “I have to sit down with my family and talk with my adviser and see what will happen.”

He said his decision will not be affected by Wednesday’s announcement that longtime Texas assistant coach Tommy Harmon, who recruited Hinojosa, will not be back with the Longhorns next season.

“Tommy was a great guy, but my dream was always to play for Texas coach Augie Garrido,” he said. “As long as Augie is there, I don’t have any reason not to go.”

Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow acknowledged that Hinojosa has alternatives to going pro.

“We do like him a lot, and if the situation arose where we could come close to meeting what he feels he needs to forego that Texas education and opportunity to play there right now, we’ll pursue it,” Luhnow said.

[Ron Brand]

Wasn't Vescovo a Horn?

[jbm]

I haven't looked at all the commitments and drafting, but it was speculated that the new rules would drive more players to college.  I was kind of hoping for a blossoming of college baseball, and associated ability to retain more recruits for Texas.  Curious to see how it finally shakes out. 

[MusicMan]

I haven't looked at all the commitments and drafting, but it was speculated that the new rules would drive more players to college.  I was kind of hoping for a blossoming of college baseball, and associated ability to retain more recruits for Texas.  Curious to see how it finally shakes out. 

BA tweeted that they were getting lots of texts from college coaches anticipating that this draft was doing exactly that.

[Navin R Johnson]

I thought I read where Hinojosa was asking for 2.5 million to opt out of UT.   Unless the astros are able to convince a bunch of top 10 round guys to go WAY under slot, or can't sign 3 or 4, I don't think they could offer even 1 million without losing draft picks.   Would be a huge get for Lunhow though.

[roadrunner]

Law on the Astros draft:

http://insider.espn.go.com/mlb/draft/2012/story/_/id/8013105/evaluating-draft-classes-nl-teams

Houston Astros
Summary: I love this draft. They'll likely sign first overall pick Carlos Correa (1) for well less than the $7.2 million assigned value -- I'm expecting something around $4.5 million -- and spread the money to high-upside prep pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. (1A) and sweet-swinging third baseman Rio Ruiz (4). Shortstop Nolan Fontana (2) stays at the position with great instincts, an average but accurate arm and a great eye at the plate. Brady Rodgers (3) has plus command, and will work with three and possibly four pitches, although his fastball will likely sit at fringe-average. Brett Phillips (6) can run, throw and play the outfield, and has played linebacker in his spare time. With a solid swing, he seems like an outstanding value in that spot. Preston Tucker (7) is a good senior sign with some pull power but probably not enough offense overall to profile as more than a bench guy.

[pots]

Correa will, according to sources, sign for $5.135 million

http://www.foxsportshouston.com/06/06/12/Correa-signing-first-step-in-Astros-mast/landing_astros.html?blockID=742450

[OregonStrosFan]

BTW, I 'hope' to have an update compiled of the 2012 Draftees and Status charts completed and posted this evening.

[accougars]

I thought I read where Hinojosa was asking for 2.5 million to opt out of UT.   Unless the astros are able to convince a bunch of top 10 round guys to go WAY under slot, or can't sign 3 or 4, I don't think they could offer even 1 million without losing draft picks.   Would be a huge get for Lunhow though.

I wonder what the affect of the proximity of parent club has on signability. Of course it is a case by case basis, but it always seems that the Braves have four or five solid prospects that were picked out of Georgiia high schools in the late rounds. It is as if they target those players as signable only for them. For instance, if a kid (not just talking Hinojosa here) wants 750,000 to turn pro, would he take 375,000 and a promise to pay for his education from his hometown team?

[OregonStrosFan]

Correa has officially signed btw... (Astros.com link)

[OregonStrosFan]

The estimated signing amount for Correa (no official word yet) is $5.135 per FSH.

[OregonStrosFan]

2nd hand info via McTaggart Tweet:

@brianmctaggart
From 45 minutes ago @JonHeymanCBS Hear carlos correa deal with astros is for $4.8M

Callis is reporting $4.8M as well.

[BudGirl]

2nd hand info via McTaggart Tweet:

@brianmctaggart
From 45 minutes ago @JonHeymanCBS Hear carlos correa deal with astros is for $4.8M

Callis is reporting $4.8M as well.

That would be awesome.

[tlott33]

It is confirmed. According to astros.com, they have signed Correa for $4.8 mil.

[OregonStrosFan]

It is confirmed. According to astros.com, they have signed Correa for $4.8 mil.

It is also confirmed that I have had too many adult beverages tonight to edit the 2012 Draftees and Status charts tonight.  Just sayin'...

[Navin R Johnson]

The Astros saved 2.4 million dollars on the Correa signing.  They now have that 2.4 mil to spend on other picks. 

The Angels entire draft budget, 2.1 million.  Tigers Draft Budget, 1.645

[Waldo]

The Astros saved 2.4 million dollars on the Correa signing.  They now have that 2.4 mil to spend on other picks. 

The Angels entire draft budget, 2.1 million.  Tigers Draft Budget, 1.645

I haven't been keeping up very much.  Do the Astros have a larger budget simply because they were the first pick?

[MusicMan]

I haven't been keeping up very much.  Do the Astros have a larger budget simply because they were the first pick?

Also according to number of picks, so the supplemental for Barmes added to the pool.  (Thanks, Ed!)

[OregonStrosFan]

I haven't been keeping up very much.  Do the Astros have a larger budget simply because they were the first pick?

In part.  Pick 1.1 was assigned a value of $7.2M. The lower the pick, the lower the value assigned to it (e.g. pick 1.2 was assigned a value of $6.2M; pick 1.3 = $5.2M; pick 1.4 = $4.2M).  So, by virtue of having the highest pick (plus a supplemental pick for Barmes), and the vast difference in the monetized value of that pick, the Astros had a larger budget than most teams.  However, the Twins actually had the largest draft bonus pool because they had 1.2 ($6.2M) plus more compensation picks than the Astros (in addition to 1S.42, the Twins also had 1S.32, which had an assigned value of $1.55M).  Helpful?

[Navin R Johnson]

Anyone hear a # on what Rodgers signed for?

[jbm]

Anyone hear a # on what Rodgers signed for?

No, but I wonder if it will be disclosed as the Astros probably don't want all the hard signs to know exactly what they can afford, although the Correa disclosure kind of goes against that theory.

[Navin R Johnson]

No, but I wonder if it will be disclosed as the Astros probably don't want all the hard signs to know exactly what they can afford, although the Correa disclosure kind of goes against that theory.

Don't they have to disclose it?  At least at some point.

[BudGirl]

Pretty much everyone knew Correa was going to sign under. 

I like that it hasn't been disclosed.  Gives the Astros the leverage.

[Noe]

Last night, JD and Brownie said that Boras said McCuller definitely has options when it comes to playing college ball. I wonder if Scotty Boy got wind of money to be had because Correa didn't break the bank.

What a shrew man that Boras guy.

[Navin R Johnson]

Last night, JD and Brownie said that Boras said McCuller definitely has options when it comes to playing college ball. I wonder if Scotty Boy got wind of money to be had because Correa didn't break the bank.

What a shrew man that Boras guy.

Yep, you can almost count on Boras eating up every last cent that the Astros saved on Correa.

Will be interesting to see how this plays out.  Do the Astros try and sign as many people as they can ASAP and leave just enough to match McCullers original #?  And hope he honors that and tells Boras to stick it?

[OregonStrosFan]

Yep, you can almost count on Boras eating up every last cent that the Astros saved on Correa.

Will be interesting to see how this plays out.  Do the Astros try and sign as many people as they can ASAP and leave just enough to match McCullers original #?  And hope he honors that and tells Boras to stick it?

The FO and scouts believed that they had a reasonable idea of what it would take to sign McCullers before doing so. And from what I 'think' I've gleaned from all of the discussions is that it is not going to take the entire Correa difference.  Remember as well that Ruiz (5th rd pick) is also a Boras client. Now between the two of them (if Ruiz also signs) I would imagine most of the Correa difference will be used.

[moriartp]

The FO and scouts believed that they had a reasonable idea of what it would take to sign McCullers before doing so. And from what I 'think' I've gleaned from all of the discussions is that it is not going to take the entire Correa difference.  Remember as well that Ruiz (4th rd pick) is also a Boras client. Now between the two of them (if Ruiz also signs) I would imagine most of the Correa difference will be used.

They'll also have some extra cash from their two senior signs. I wonder if they'll need all of it to get Ruiz done, or if they'll have even more left over to go after a guy like Virant or Hinojosa.

[JackAstro]

So, there's an extra $2.4M to play with from the Correa signing. If the Astros sign McCullers for #10 pick money ($2.7M), that eats up $1,441,300 of the surplus, and leaves $958,700 to work with. That's enough to bump up every other pick in the first 10 rounds by 35%, or throw $1M+ at Hinojosa.

Maybe Boras is stupid enough pass on top 10 cash for McCullers, but that's a hell of a risk for the possibility of a deferred reward that's not a whole lot greater. I suppose I could see him pushing for #8 money, to take some of the sting off the perception of him costing Appel money, but even that would only take another $200,000.

This is some masterful work by Luhnow and company, regardless of how it actually plays out. In the first year of a draft system with no roadmap, a seeming lack of ability to overspend, and no clear 1.1, they have maximized the value of their position beyond anything I could have imagined. Amazing job.

[pots]

Luhnow has repeatedly said he expects to sign the first 11 picks.  That would include Ruiz.  But not necessarily Variant or Hinojosa.  They also have stated the McCullers signing is hoped to occur during the next home stand which coincides with McCullers saying 2 weeks a couple of days ago.

[OregonStrosFan]

So, there's an extra $2.4M to play with from the Correa signing. If the Astros sign McCullers for #10 pick money ($2.7M), that eats up $1,441,300 of the surplus, and leaves $958,700 to work with. That's enough to bump up every other pick in the first 10 rounds by 35%, or throw $1M+ at Hinojosa.

Maybe Boras is stupid enough pass on top 10 cash for McCullers, but that's a hell of a risk for the possibility of a deferred reward that's not a whole lot greater. I suppose I could see him pushing for #8 money, to take some of the sting off the perception of him costing Appel money, but even that would only take another $200,000.

This is some masterful work by Luhnow and company, regardless of how it actually plays out. In the first year of a draft system with no roadmap, a seeming lack of ability to overspend, and no clear 1.1, they have maximized the value of their position beyond anything I could have imagined. Amazing job.

A lot of Astros-related stuff in the Callis chat yesterday (LINK), but the following is relevant to this discussion:

Mike (Orlando): Several interesting strategies this year, can you explain the Astros plan for signing Hunter Virant?

Jim Callis: Sure. I think by the time they sign Correa and McCullers, they'll have saved roughly $1 million vs. pick value. They might be able to take some discounts in rounds 2, 3 and 5, plus they can save maybe $500,000 with their senior signs in rounds 7-10. That could give them an extra $1.7 million or so to play with as they pursue Rio Ruiz and Virant.

[astrosfan76]

A lot of Astros-related stuff in the Callis chat yesterday (LINK), but the following is relevant to this discussion:

Mike (Orlando): Several interesting strategies this year, can you explain the Astros plan for signing Hunter Virant?

Jim Callis: Sure. I think by the time they sign Correa and McCullers, they'll have saved roughly $1 million vs. pick value. They might be able to take some discounts in rounds 2, 3 and 5, plus they can save maybe $500,000 with their senior signs in rounds 7-10. That could give them an extra $1.7 million or so to play with as they pursue Rio Ruiz and Virant.

I don't know exactly when the first reports came out, but they were saying $5.1M for Correa.  If Callis was using that in his figures, that would create an additional ~$300K.  I remember seeing mid-first round money for McCullers, though I don't know how accurate that is, or how big of a range is being incorporated.  Cecchini signed for $2.3M at #12, so if McCullers received that, it would put them at $7.1M between the two picks, putting them $1.3M below slot.  Luhnow should be able to do some stuff with that.

[Navin R Johnson]

Per McTaggert, a bunch of signings.

Astros sign OF Aplin (5th round), OF Joyce (12th round), LHP Holmes (13th round), IF Sclafani (14th round), RHP Gonzalez (15th round), C Richard Gingras (18th round), RHP John Neely (30th round) and C M.P. Cokinos (31st round

[chuckd]

Will someone prepare a list of all the dratees & note the ones that have signed thank you

[Reuben]

Will someone prepare a list of all the dratees & note the ones that have signed thank you

Gee, can we get you some coffee, while we're at it?

[Ron Brand]

Farmstros is on it.

[OregonStrosFan]

ASTROS 2012 DRAFTEES AND BACKGROUND DATA

Draftee Carlos Correa Lance McCullers Jr. Nolan Fontana Brady Rodgers Rio Ruiz Andrew Aplin Brett Phillips Preston Tucker Tyler Heineman Daniel Minor Joseph Bircher Hunter Virant Terrell Joyce Brian Holmes Jooel Sciafani Erick Gonzalez Dan Gulbransen Aaron West Ricky Gringras Austin Elkins Michael Clark Marc Wik Kenneth Long Travis Ballew Partick Blair Ryan Dineen C. J. Hinojosa Tanner Mathis Angel Ibanez Christian Garcia John Neely M. P. Cokinos Tyler Manez Mike Hauschild Jordan Jankowski James Sinatro Michael Martinez Michael Dimock Zachary Remillard Mitchell Traver Joe Shaw Non-drafted FA signings

Rd/Pick (1) 1 (Comp A) 41 (2) 61 (3) 96 (4) 129 (5) 159 (6) 189 (7) 219 (8) 249 (9) 279 (10) 309 (11) 339 (12) 369 (13) 399 (14) 429 (15) 459 (16) 489 (17) 519 (18) 549 (19) 579 (20) 609 (21) 639 (22) 669 (23) 699 (24) 729 (25) 759 (26) 789 (27) 819 (28) 849 (29) 879 (30) 909 (31) 939 (32) 969 (33) 999 (34) 1029 (35) 1059 (36) 1089 (37) 1119 (38) 1149 (39) 1179 (40) 1209

$ Allotment $7,200,000 $1,258,700 $844,100 $495,200 $360,200 $269,700 $201,900 $151,400 $140,400 $131,100 $125,000 [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000]

POS     SS    RHP    SS    RHP    3B    CF    CF    OF    C    RHP    LHP    LHP    LF    LHP    SS    RHP    LF    RP    C    2B    LHP    CF    LHP    RHP    SS    SS    SS    CF    3B    RHP    RHP    C    LHP    RHP    RHP    C    1B    RHP    3B    RHP    RHP

School Puerto Rico BB Academy, PR Jesuit HS, FL Florida, FL Arizona State, AZ Bishop Amat HS, CA Arizona State, AZ Seminole HS, FL Florida, FL UCLA, CA Texas A&M – Corpus, TX Bradley University, IL Adolfo Camarillo HS, CA Florida State College, FL Wake Forest, NC Dartmouth, NH Gateway CC, AZ Jacksonville University, FL Washington, WA Point Loma Nazarene U, CA Dallas Baptist, TX Kent State, OH Chabot College, CA Illinois State, IL Texas State, TX Wake Forest, NC Eastern Illinois, IL Klein Collins HS, TX Ole Miss, MS U Texas Pan American, TX Florence-Darlington Tech, SC Texas Tech, TX St. Mary's University, TX Plainedge HS, NY Dayton, OH Catawba College, NC Skyline HS, WA Florida International, FL Wake Forest, NC LaSalle Institute, NY Houston Christian HS, TX Ennis HS, TX

Class    HS   HS   JR   JR   HS   JR   HS   SR   JR   JR   SR   HS   J2   JR   JR   J2   JR   SR   JR   JR   JR   J2   5S   JR   JR   JR   HS   JR   JR   J2   SR   JR   HS   SR   SR   HS   SR   SR   HS   HS   HS

B/T  R/R L/R L/R R/R L/R L/L L/R L/L S/R R/R L/L R/L R/R L/L S/R R/R L/L R/R L/R S/R L/L L/R L/L R/R R/R L/R R/R L/L L/R R/R R/R R/R L/L R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R R/R

Ht/Wt        6'04" / 190 6'01" / 190 5'11" / 192 6'01" / 195 6'01" / 180 6'00" / 194 6'00" / 175 6'00" / 220 5'11" / 205 5'11" / 188 6'04" / 220 6'03" / 175 6'03" / 230 6'04" / 205 5'09" / 185 6'01" / 175 5'11" / 200 6'01" / 205 6'02" / 205 5'11" / 185 6'03" / 175 5'11" / 195 6'00" / 165 6'00" / 160 5'10" / 180 6'02" / 205 5'11" / 185 5'11" / 180 6'02" / 220 6'02" / 175 6'02" / 195 6'02" / 215 6'03" / 180 6'03" / 210 6'00" / 195 5'10" / 185 6'00" / 215 6'02" / 194 6'01" / 200 6'07" / 240 6'05" / 215

DOB 09/22/94 10/02/93 06/06/91 09/17/90 05/22/94 03/21/91 05/30/94 07/06/90 06/19/91 02/09/91 03/27/90 01/22/94 05/29/92 01/30/91 04/22/90 01/10/92 01/05/91 06/01/90 10/18/90 12/21/90 06/11/91 07/18/92 01/28/89 05/01/91 10/01/91 03/02/91 07/15/94 06/27/91 09/10/90 09/24/91 07/09/90 06/18/90 01/01/94 01/22/90 05/17/89 09/03/93 12/05/89 10/26/89 02/21/94 05/03/94 12/20/93

[Navin R Johnson]

Nice work OST.

BTW, the Greenville, Tri City and GCL Astros' rosters have been updated with most of the signings.

[Navin R Johnson]

Here is an updated list of signed players and where they have been assigned.

1st Round - Carlos Correa, SS, Puerto Rico Baseball Academy – GCL Astros
3rd Round- Brady Rodgers, RHP, Arizona St. – Tri City
5th Round- Andrew Aplin, CF, Arizona St. – Tri City
9th Round- Daniel Minor, RHP, Texas A&M-Corpus Christi - NA
12th Round- Terrell Joyce, LF, Florida State College - Greenville
13th Round- Brian Holmes, LHP, Wake Forest – Tri City
14th Round- Joe Sclafani, SS, Dartmouth - Greenville
15th Round- Erick Gonzalez, RHP, Gateway CC – GCL Astros
17th Round- Aaron West, RHP, Washington, Signed - NA
18th Round- Richard Gingrass, C, Palm Desert - Greenville
23rd Round- Travis Ballew, RHP, Texas St. - NA
30th Round- John Neely, RHP, Texas Tech – Tri City
31st Round- M.P. Cokinos, C, St. Mary's(TX) – Tri City

[OregonStrosFan]

2012 DRAFT SIGNING STATUS AND 'BONUS POOL' IMPLICATIONS

At present the Astros have signed 12 of their 41 draft picks, including their 1st round pick Correa (1-1), 3rd round pick Rodgers (3-96), 5th round pick Aplin (5-159) and 9th round pick Minor (9-279).  Numerous others have noted they are signing/about to sign as well, including 23-399 Ballew (LINK; LINK); and 17-519 West (LINK), but those will not be posted as 'signed' until it has been reported that there has been an 'actual' signing.

'Official' signing links (i.e. from Astros.com): 1-1 Correa (LINK); 3-96 Rodgers (LINK); and 5-159 Aplin, 12-369 Joyce, 13-399 Holmes, 14-429 Sciafani, 15-459 E. Gonzalez, 18-549 Gringras, 30-909 Neely, and 31-939 Cokinos (LINK).

'Unofficial' signing links (i.e. other sources - many gleaned from Astros County posts): 9-279 Minor (LINK); and 37-1119 Dimock (LINK);

Astros $11,177,700 total 'bonus pool' information per Baseball America (LINK).  Referenced bonus pool 'slotting allotments' per pick via Baseball America (LINK).

'Actual' signing bonuses referenced links:  1-1 Correa (LINK); 9-279 Minor (LINK); and 13-399 Holmes (LINK).

2012 DRAFT SIGNING STATUS AND 'BONUS POOL' IMPLICATIONS

Draftee Carlos Correa Lance McCullers Jr. Nolan Fontana Brady Rodgers Rio Ruiz Andrew Aplin Brett Phillips Preston Tucker Tyler Heineman Daniel Minor Joseph Bircher Hunter Virant Terrell Joyce Brian Holmes Jooel Sciafani Erick Gonzalez Dan Gulbransen Aaron West Ricky Gringras Austin Elkins Michael Clark Marc Wik Kenneth Long Travis Ballew Partick Blair Ryan Dineen C. J. Hinojosa Tanner Mathis Angel Ibanez Christian Garcia John Neely M. P. Cokinos Tyler Manez Mike Hauschild Jordan Jankowski James Sinatro Michael Martinez Michael Dimock Zachary Remillard Mitchell Traver Joe Shaw Non-drafted FA signings

Rd/Pick      (1) 1 (Comp A) 41 (2) 61 (3) 96 (4) 129 (5) 159 (6) 189 (7) 219 (8) 249 (9) 279 (10) 309 (11) 339 (12) 369 (13) 399 (14) 429 (15) 459 (16) 489 (17) 519 (18) 549 (19) 579 (20) 609 (21) 639 (22) 669 (23) 699 (24) 729 (25) 759 (26) 789 (27) 819 (28) 849 (29) 879 (30) 909 (31) 939 (32) 969 (33) 999 (34) 1029 (35) 1059 (36) 1089 (37) 1119 (38) 1149 (39) 1179 (40) 1209

Signed   Yes    -    -   Yes    -   Yes    -    -    -   Yes    -    -   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes    -    -   Yes    -    -    -    -    -    -    -    -    -    -    -   Yes   Yes    -    -    -    -    -   Yes    -    -    -

Allotment      $7,200,000 $1,258,700 $844,100 $495,200 $360,200 $269,700 $201,900 $151,400 $140,400 $131,100 $125,000 [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000]

Signed for  $4,800,000 $50,000 $100,000

over/[under] [$2,400,000] [$81,100] $0.00

Class     HS    HS    JR    JR    HS    JR    HS    SR    JR    JR    SR    HS    J2    JR    JR    J2    JR    SR    JR    JR    JR    J2    5S    JR    JR    JR    HS    JR    JR    J2    SR    JR    HS    SR    SR    HS    SR    SR    HS    HS    HS

DOB    09/22/94 10/02/93 06/06/91 09/17/90 05/22/94 03/21/91 05/30/94 07/06/90 06/19/91 02/09/91 03/27/90 01/22/94 05/29/92 01/30/91 04/22/90 01/10/92 01/05/91 06/01/90 10/18/90 12/21/90 06/11/91 07/18/92 01/28/89 05/01/91 10/01/91 03/02/91 07/15/94 06/27/91 09/10/90 09/24/91 07/09/90 06/18/90 01/01/94 01/22/90 05/17/89 09/03/93 12/05/89 10/26/89 02/21/94 05/03/94 12/20/93

Scouting Report links

[OregonStrosFan]

Anyone hear a # on what Rodgers signed for?

The only thing I have read thusfar is the amount of the slot at 3-96. I haven't seen an 'official' type number yet.

[OregonStrosFan]

ANY ASSISTANCE WOULD BE APPRECIATED!!!!!

If you see that someone has actually signed (e.g.'s Astros.com, BA, hometown paper, Twitter link, etc., etc...), please post it ALONG WITH a link.  I'll try to update these daily.  Additionally... If you see a 'signing bonus paid' amount (solid source better than shaky source, but post whatever you find and I'll eval before adding it to the chart), please post that as well. 

MANY THANKS!

[OregonStrosFan]

And a misc. neither here nor there... but... if y'all think that Boras is going to 'just sit back and take it' regarding actual or perceived constraints of the new draft system, I'd be willing to bet that you are wrong.  I don't know in what form they'll take, but I do see some fireworks of some sort coming in the near future... And I'm not the only one...  (Jayson Stark LINK).

[tlott33]

Per Astros.com press release, they sign eight more players--

Minor-9th round
Gulbransen-16th
West-17th
Elkins-19th
Ibanez-28th
Garcia-29th
Jankowski-34th
Dimock-37th

Here's the link:

http://houston.astros.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120609&content_id=33042604&vkey=pr_hou&c_id=hou

[OregonStrosFan]

Per Astros.com press release, they sign eight more players--

Minor-9th round
Gulbransen-16th
West-17th
Elkins-19th
Ibanez-28th
Garcia-29th
Jankowski-34th
Dimock-37th

Here's the link:

http://houston.astros.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20120609&content_id=33042604&vkey=pr_hou&c_id=hou

Thanks!  I'll update the charts this evening!

[OregonStrosFan]

2012 DRAFT SIGNING STATUS AND 'BONUS POOL' IMPLICATIONS

The Astros have officially signed 18 of their 41 draft picks from the 2012 draft. (LINK)

'Official' signing links (i.e. from Astros.com): Astros.com announced the signing of 8 additional draftees today.  The signings as as follows: 9th rd Daniel Minor (RHP); 16th rd - Daniel Gulbransen (OF); 17th rd - Aaron West (RHP); 19th rd - Austin Elkins (IF); 28th rd - Angel Ibanez (IF); 29th rd - Christian Garcia (RHP); 34th rd - Jordan Jankowski (RHP); and 37th rd - Michael Dimock (RHP) (Minor and Dimock were already noted in the previous chart update).

'Unofficial' signing links (i.e. other sources): none this chart update.

Astros $11,177,700 total 'bonus pool' information per Baseball America (LINK).  Referenced bonus pool 'slotting allotments' per pick via Baseball America (LINK).

'Actual' signing bonuses referenced links:  no new bonus information.

Per available information, the Astros are currently $2,481,100 under their bonus pool allotment.  

2012 DRAFT SIGNING STATUS AND 'BONUS POOL' IMPLICATIONS

Draftee Carlos Correa Lance McCullers Jr. Nolan Fontana Brady Rodgers Rio Ruiz Andrew Aplin Brett Phillips Preston Tucker Tyler Heineman Daniel Minor Joseph Bircher Hunter Virant Terrell Joyce Brian Holmes Jooel Sciafani Erick Gonzalez Dan Gulbransen Aaron West Ricky Gringras Austin Elkins Michael Clark Marc Wik Kenneth Long Travis Ballew Partick Blair Ryan Dineen C. J. Hinojosa Tanner Mathis Angel Ibanez Christian Garcia John Neely M. P. Cokinos Tyler Manez Mike Hauschild Jordan Jankowski James Sinatro Michael Martinez Michael Dimock Zachary Remillard Mitchell Traver Joe Shaw Non-drafted FA signings

Rd/Pick       (1) 1 (Comp A) 41 (2) 61 (3) 96 (4) 129 (5) 159 (6) 189 (7) 219 (8) 249 (9) 279 (10) 309 (11) 339 (12) 369 (13) 399 (14) 429 (15) 459 (16) 489 (17) 519 (18) 549 (19) 579 (20) 609 (21) 639 (22) 669 (23) 699 (24) 729 (25) 759 (26) 789 (27) 819 (28) 849 (29) 879 (30) 909 (31) 939 (32) 969 (33) 999 (34) 1029 (35) 1059 (36) 1089 (37) 1119 (38) 1149 (39) 1179 (40) 1209

Signed   Yes    -    -   Yes    -   Yes    -    -    -   Yes    -    -   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes    -    -    -    -    -    -    -    -   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes    -    -   Yes    -    -   Yes    -    -    -

Allotment     $7,200,000 $1,258,700 $844,100 $495,200 $360,200 $269,700 $201,900 $151,400 $140,400 $131,100 $125,000 [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000]

Signed for   $4,800,000 $50,000 $100,000

over/[under] [$2,400,000] [$81,100] $0.00

Class      HS    HS    JR    JR    HS    JR    HS    SR    JR    JR    SR    HS    J2    JR    JR    J2    JR    SR    JR    JR    JR    J2    5S    JR    JR    JR    HS    JR    JR    J2    SR    JR    HS    SR    SR    HS    SR    SR    HS    HS    HS

DOB     09/22/94 10/02/93 06/06/91 09/17/90 05/22/94 03/21/91 05/30/94 07/06/90 06/19/91 02/09/91 03/27/90 01/22/94 05/29/92 01/30/91 04/22/90 01/10/92 01/05/91 06/01/90 10/18/90 12/21/90 06/11/91 07/18/92 01/28/89 05/01/91 10/01/91 03/02/91 07/15/94 06/27/91 09/10/90 09/24/91 07/09/90 06/18/90 01/01/94 01/22/90 05/17/89 09/03/93 12/05/89 10/26/89 02/21/94 05/03/94 12/20/93

Scouting Report links

[pots]

As mentioned on AstrosCounty, 23rd rounder Travis Ballew signed (according to himself):
https://twitter.com/Tballew18/status/211557894859145217


Tri-City:
https://twitter.com/Tballew18/status/211584962640625665

[Navin R Johnson]

How and why would Minor sign for only 50K?  I hope he doesn't have an agent or after taxes and the agent he is gonna be taking home 30K?

Obviously any savings you can get on your first 10 picks is great for the Astros, but that just seems like a really low #. 

With the new rules, it looks like the strategy going forward is to identify as many college JR and especially SRs that are willing to sign for really low $ and take them 6th-10th rounds, thus freeing up money for other harder to sign kids.

[Navin R Johnson]

Also, Minor is headed to Greenville.

[Navin R Johnson]

Also from McTaggert

@brianmctaggart
Astros GM Jeff Luhnow hopes for an event for 41st overall pick Lance McCullers Jr. next homestand (June 18) like was held today for Correa.

[OregonStrosFan]

On Correa (Peter Gamons via Twitter):

Baseball proud that number one pick Carlos Correa graduated today with a 4.0 average. No. 1 in the draft, no. 1 in his class

[OregonStrosFan]

As mentioned on AstrosCounty, 23rd rounder Travis Ballew signed (according to himself):
https://twitter.com/Tballew18/status/211557894859145217


Tri-City:
https://twitter.com/Tballew18/status/211584962640625665

Thanks!  Per the Astros Game Notes from today, the Astros have signed 3 more players (including Ballew): LINK

TODAY’S SIGNINGS: Astros Assistant G.M./Director of Scouting Bobby Heck has announced the following three signings today: LHP Joseph Bircher (10th round), RHP Travis Ballew (23rd round), 1B Michael Martinez (36th round)...Bircher and Ballew have been assigned to Tri-City and Martinez has been assigned to Greenville...SIGNED, SEALED: Including today, the Astros have signed 21 of their 41 2012 Draft picks, including
13 players selected in the 1st 20 rounds.

I'll update the signings chart later this evening!

[OregonStrosFan]

Astros 22nd round pick Kenny Long has also signed (via his Twitter account):

I just signed my contract. I'm officially an ‪#astro‬

[OregonStrosFan]

2012 DRAFT SIGNING STATUS AND 'BONUS POOL' IMPLICATIONS

Overall Signing Status: Including today, the Astros have signed 22 of their 41 2012 Draft picks, including 13 players selected in the 1st 20 rounds.

OFFICIAL SIGNINGS: "...Heck has announced the following three signings today: LHP Joseph Bircher (10th round), RHP Travis Ballew (23rd round), 1B Michael Martinez (36th round)...Bircher and Ballew have been assigned to Tri-City and Martinez has been assigned to Greenville...

UNOFFICIAL SIGNINGS (e.g. Other sources): Astros 22nd round pick Kenny Long has also signed (via his Twitter account): I just signed my contract. I'm officially an ‪#astro‬

Astros $11,177,700 total 'bonus pool' information per Baseball America (LINK).  Referenced bonus pool 'slotting allotments' per pick via Baseball America (LINK).

'Actual' signing bonuses referenced links:  no new bonus information.

Per available information, the Astros are currently $2,481,100 under their bonus pool allotment.  

2012 DRAFT SIGNING STATUS AND 'BONUS POOL' IMPLICATIONS

Draftee Carlos Correa Lance McCullers Jr. Nolan Fontana Brady Rodgers Rio Ruiz Andrew Aplin Brett Phillips Preston Tucker Tyler Heineman Daniel Minor Joseph Bircher Hunter Virant Terrell Joyce Brian Holmes Jooel Sciafani Erick Gonzalez Dan Gulbransen Aaron West Ricky Gringras Austin Elkins Michael Clark Marc Wik Kenneth Long Travis Ballew Partick Blair Ryan Dineen C. J. Hinojosa Tanner Mathis Angel Ibanez Christian Garcia John Neely M. P. Cokinos Tyler Manez Mike Hauschild Jordan Jankowski James Sinatro Michael Martinez Michael Dimock Zachary Remillard Mitchell Traver Joe Shaw Non-drafted FA signings

Rd/Pick           (1) 1 (Comp A) 41 (2) 61 (3) 96 (4) 129 (5) 159 (6) 189 (7) 219 (8) 249 (9) 279 (10) 309 (11) 339 (12) 369 (13) 399 (14) 429 (15) 459 (16) 489 (17) 519 (18) 549 (19) 579 (20) 609 (21) 639 (22) 669 (23) 699 (24) 729 (25) 759 (26) 789 (27) 819 (28) 849 (29) 879 (30) 909 (31) 939 (32) 969 (33) 999 (34) 1029 (35) 1059 (36) 1089 (37) 1119 (38) 1149 (39) 1179 (40) 1209

Signed   Yes    -    -   Yes    -   Yes    -    -    -   Yes   Yes    -   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes    -    -   Yes   Yes    -    -    -    -   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes    -    -   Yes    -   Yes   Yes    -    -    -

Allotment     $7,200,000 $1,258,700 $844,100 $495,200 $360,200 $269,700 $201,900 $151,400 $140,400 $131,100 $125,000 [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000]

Signed for   $4,800,000 $50,000 $100,000

over/[under] [$2,400,000] [$81,100] $0.00

Class      HS    HS    JR    JR    HS    JR    HS    SR    JR    JR    SR    HS    J2    JR    JR    J2    JR    SR    JR    JR    JR    J2    5S    JR    JR    JR    HS    JR    JR    J2    SR    JR    HS    SR    SR    HS    SR    SR    HS    HS    HS

DOB     09/22/94 10/02/93 06/06/91 09/17/90 05/22/94 03/21/91 05/30/94 07/06/90 06/19/91 02/09/91 03/27/90 01/22/94 05/29/92 01/30/91 04/22/90 01/10/92 01/05/91 06/01/90 10/18/90 12/21/90 06/11/91 07/18/92 01/28/89 05/01/91 10/01/91 03/02/91 07/15/94 06/27/91 09/10/90 09/24/91 07/09/90 06/18/90 01/01/94 01/22/90 05/17/89 09/03/93 12/05/89 10/26/89 02/21/94 05/03/94 12/20/93

Scouting Report links

[astrosfan76]

The A's have signed their 1st-round selection, Addison Russell (#11 overall) to a contract.  I bring this up only because he is a Boras client and a high pick.  There's a perception that all Boras clients (especially at the top) will wait until the last minute to sign, trying to extract every $ possible.  We have a few of his guys, most notably McCullers, whom I've been skeptical of getting signed any time soon.  But, it turns out, Luhnow might not have been crazy to put out hope that we could have him signed by this weekend. 

[OregonStrosFan]

There's a perception that all Boras clients (especially at the top) will wait until the last minute to sign, trying to extract every $ possible.  We have a few of his guys, most notably McCullers, whom I've been skeptical of getting signed any time soon.  But, it turns out, Luhnow might not have been crazy to put out hope that we could have him signed by this weekend.

I think that for some Boras clients, this will hold true.  Appel is one such example.  I wouldn't be surprised to see Ruiz as another.  McCullers is one that I've never particularly thought was going to go that route.  For one, I've not gotten the impression that McCullers Sr. or Jr. are the types that'd simply let Boras run roughshod over them - rather he is there to advise and 'reasonably' try to maximize value.  I think HOU had a pretty good idea of what it was going to take to sign McCullers Jr. in the first place, has made reasonable offers to sign him, and will get it done.  Just my $0.02 anyway...

[astrosfan76]

I think that for some Boras clients, this will hold true.  Appel is one such example.  I wouldn't be surprised to see Ruiz as another.  McCullers is one that I've never particularly thought was going to go that route.  For one, I've not gotten the impression that McCullers Sr. or Jr. are the types that'd simply let Boras run roughshod over them - rather he is there to advise and 'reasonably' try to maximize value.  I think HOU had a pretty good idea of what it was going to take to sign McCullers Jr. in the first place, has made reasonable offers to sign him, and will get it done.  Just my $0.02 anyway...

The "I (McCullers) didn't get picked where I deserved to be picked thing didn't help me, either."  But, hopefully it does get done quickly.

[Navin R Johnson]

Brett Phillips just tweeted out that he has signed.

[Navin R Johnson]

@LauraHomeTeam

2nd Tampa Bay draftee to sign today RT @RodneyHomeTeam Brett Phillips signs with Astros. $300 grand signing bonus http://bit.ly/KotHqa
 

[moriartp]

@LauraHomeTeam

2nd Tampa Bay draftee to sign today RT @RodneyHomeTeam Brett Phillips signs with Astros. $300 grand signing bonus http://bit.ly/KotHqa
 

Slot value just a hair over $200k. Not bad.

[Duman]

A few signings this morning: 25th rounder Ryan Dineen reported to be signing

33rd Rounder Hauschild  & His buddy a Non Drafted Free Agent Brian Blasik have both signed and will report to Gville

[OregonStrosFan]

A few signings this morning: 25th rounder Ryan Dineen reported to be signing

33rd Rounder Hauschild  & His buddy a Non Drafted Free Agent Brian Blasik have both signed and will report to Gville

Thanks Appy!  Will update shortly (along with the signings noted from 'The Jerk').  Additionally, BA has posted some more signing info as well!

[Señor Stan]

@LauraHomeTeam

2nd Tampa Bay draftee to sign today RT @RodneyHomeTeam Brett Phillips signs with Astros. $300 grand signing bonus http://bit.ly/KotHqa
 

The contract also includes a clause that the Astros will pay Phillips' college tuition.

I wonder how a deal like that affects the slotting number?

Pincus said the Phillies were interested in taking Phillips in the fourth round of the draft but could not match the bonus money offered by Houston.

Like any other draft, can't tell what the final product will be...but the approach Luhnow and team are taking is brilliant.

[MusicMan]

I wonder how a deal like that affects the slotting number?

Per Callis, it does not count towards the pool.

[BudGirl]

Question:

The drafted players are getting a bonus?  If it is a bonus, do they all sign the same minor league contract?

[OregonStrosFan]

2012 DRAFT SIGNING STATUS AND 'BONUS POOL' IMPLICATIONS

Overall Signing Status: Including the draftee signing noted by NavinRJohnson, the two draftee signings noted by AppyAstros, and the NDFA noted by AppyAstros, the Astros have signed 25 of their 41 2012 Draft picks and have signed 1 non-drafted free agent SS.  Included in the 16 unsigned draft picks are 4 players currently playing in the College World Series (denoted as '[CBWS]' below), and are thus unable to begin negotiations currently.  These 4 players are: Rd. 2 - Nolan Fontana (Florida); Rd. 7 - Preston Tucker (Florida); Rd. 8 - Tyler Heineman (UCLA); and Rd. 20 - Michael Clark (Kent State).

Unofficial Signings: Rd. 6 (189) - Brett Phillips (SnS LINK); and Rd, 25 (759) - Ryan Dineen, Rd. 33 (999) - Mike Hauschild, and NDFA Brian Blasik (SnS LINK).

Astros $11,177,700 total 'bonus pool' information per Baseball America (LINK).  Referenced bonus pool 'slotting allotments' per pick via Baseball America (LINK).

'Actual' signing bonuses referenced links:  Baseball America has published bonuses for Rd. 3 (96) Brady Rodgers (JR) - $495,200 (slotted value, net +/-$0); Rd. 5 (159) Andrew Aplin (JR) - $220,000 ($49,700 under slotted value); and has confirmed the $50,000 ($81,100 under slotted value) for Rd. 9 (279) - Daniel Minor (JR) that was previously referenced in this chart. (BA LINK (signed amounts accessible via subscription)).  The signing bonus for Rd. 6 (189) Brett Phillips (HS) is reported at $300,000 ($98,900 above slotted value) per the Tampa Bay Times (LINK).

Per available information, the Astros are currently $2,431,900 under their bonus pool allotment.  This is calculated as follows (note: presently the Astros total bonus pool maximum of $11,177,700 is not 'at issue' as not all picks in the first 10 rounds have signed, hence the values noted below are only for picks: 1.1; 3.96; 5.159; 6.189; 9.279; and 10.309): $8,422,900 (slotted value of signed picks) - $5,865,200 (actual signing bonus amounts) = $2,431,900 under slotted value and may be applied to other picks.  

Again, note that this $2,431,900 in 'available signing funds' is only accessed for amounts in excess of the slotted value of the pick (e.g. The slotted value of the Rd. 10 Bircher pick is $125,000. If he signs for $225,000, only $100,000 of the $2,431,900 in 'available signing funds' is depleted).  Picks from Rounds 11-40, as well as NDFA signings, are only applied to the bonus pool total to the extent that the signing bonus exceeds $100,000 (e.g.'s: If Rd, 33 Hauschild or NDFA Blasik signed for $100,000, the Astros total bonus pool remains at $11,177,700 with no additions or subtractions.  If they each signed for $50,000, the Astros total bonus pool would still remain at $11,177,700 with no additions or subtractions.  However, if each of them signed for $125,000, the $25,000 over $100,000 for each would apply against the Astros bonus pool amounts for currently signed players of $8,422,900 (1.1; 3.96; 5.159; 6.189; 9.279; and 10.309), thus lowering the currently 'available signing funds' of $2,431,900 by $25,000 (Hauschild ex) and $25,000 (Blasik ex) to $2,381,900.


2012 DRAFT SIGNING STATUS AND 'BONUS POOL' IMPLICATIONS

Draftee Carlos Correa Lance McCullers Jr. Nolan Fontana Brady Rodgers Rio Ruiz Andrew Aplin Brett Phillips Preston Tucker Tyler Heineman Daniel Minor Joseph Bircher Hunter Virant Terrell Joyce Brian Holmes Jooel Sciafani Erick Gonzalez Dan Gulbransen Aaron West Ricky Gringras Austin Elkins Michael Clark Marc Wik Kenneth Long Travis Ballew Partick Blair Ryan Dineen C. J. Hinojosa Tanner Mathis Angel Ibanez Christian Garcia John Neely M. P. Cokinos Tyler Manez Mike Hauschild Jordan Jankowski James Sinatro Michael Martinez Michael Dimock Zachary Remillard Mitchell Traver Joe Shaw Non-drafted FA signings Brian Blasik

Rd/Pick           (1) 1 (Comp A) 41 (2) 61 (3) 96 (4) 129 (5) 159 (6) 189 (7) 219 (8) 249 (9) 279 (10) 309 (11) 339 (12) 369 (13) 399 (14) 429 (15) 459 (16) 489 (17) 519 (18) 549 (19) 579 (20) 609 (21) 639 (22) 669 (23) 699 (24) 729 (25) 759 (26) 789 (27) 819 (28) 849 (29) 879 (30) 909 (31) 939 (32) 969 (33) 999 (34) 1029 (35) 1059 (36) 1089 (37) 1119 (38) 1149 (39) 1179 (40) 1209 n/a

Signed     Yes    - [CBWS]   Yes    -   Yes   Yes [CBWS] [CBWS]   Yes   Yes    -   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes [CBWS]    -   Yes   Yes    -   Yes    -    -   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes    -   Yes   Yes    -   Yes   Yes    -    -    -   Yes

Allotment      $7,200,000  $1,258,700    $844,100    $495,200    $360,200    $269,700    $201,900    $151,400    $140,400    $131,100    $125,000 [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000]

Signed for    $4,800,000   (unsigned)   (unsigned)    $495,200   (unsigned)    $220,000    $300,000   (unsigned)   (unsigned)     $50,000   (unknown)         --         --    $100,000         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --                       --

over/[under]  [$2,400,000]         --         --              $0         --     [$49,700]      $98,900         --         --     [$81,800]    (unknown)         --         --             $0         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --                   --

Class      HS    HS    JR    JR    HS    JR    HS    SR    JR    JR    SR    HS    J2    JR    JR    J2    JR    SR    JR    JR    JR    J2    5S    JR    JR    JR    HS    JR    JR    J2    SR    JR    HS    SR    SR    HS    SR    SR    HS    HS    HS          SR

DOB     09/22/94 10/02/93 06/06/91 09/17/90 05/22/94 03/21/91 05/30/94 07/06/90 06/19/91 02/09/91 03/27/90 01/22/94 05/29/92 01/30/91 04/22/90 01/10/92 01/05/91 06/01/90 10/18/90 12/21/90 06/11/91 07/18/92 01/28/89 05/01/91 10/01/91 03/02/91 07/15/94 06/27/91 09/10/90 09/24/91 07/09/90 06/18/90 01/01/94 01/22/90 05/17/89 09/03/93 12/05/89 10/26/89 02/21/94 05/03/94 12/20/93      ??

Scouting Report links

[OregonStrosFan]

The way tables/columns are created in topics/replies is a pain, so please feel free to let me know if I've screwed up a line here or there.  And as always, keep posting any info you find out there regarding 2012 draft signings and/or bonus information.  Thanks!

[OregonStrosFan]

To reiterate something that may have been lost in the long 'update post':

Per available information, the Astros are currently $2,431,900 under their bonus pool allotment.  

This is calculated as follows (note: presently the Astros total bonus pool maximum of $11,177,700 is not 'at issue' as not all picks in the first 10 rounds have signed, hence the values noted below are only for picks: 1.1; 3.96; 5.159; 6.189; 9.279; and 10.309): $8,422,900 (slotted value of signed picks) - $5,865,200 (actual signing bonus amounts) = $2,431,900 under slotted value and may be applied to other picks.  

Edited to add value of 10th round pick allotment: Since the actual signing amount of that pick has yet to be disclosed, I have not applied it to the '[over/]under slot value' or 'actual signing bonus amounts' numbers yet, but it is included in the 'slotted value of signed picks' amount.

[EasTexAstro]

Amazing work, OSF!

[jbm]

Yes, amazing.  Thanks.

So, for those into the numbers and with a background on the specific tough signs, does it look plausible that they can take realistic stabs at them all, or just two or three?  IIRC, there are at least four: McCullers, Ruiz, Virant and Hinojosa.  Are there more?

As always, mildly informed speculation is acceptable.  

[Jacksonian]

Yes, amazing.  Thanks.

So, for those into the numbers and with a background on the specific tough signs, does it look plausible that they can take realistic stabs at them all, or just two or three?  IIRC, there are at least four: McCullers, Ruiz, Virant and Hinojosa.  Are there more?

As always, mildly informed speculation is acceptable.  

In the absence of the CWS kids signing, it appears that signing 2 of the 4 is plausible.  3 will be tough because McCullers is likely to eat a lot of the Correa savings.

[moriartp]

If they're willing to spend a little more heavily, the Astros can go up $360,000 over the cap limit without surrendering a future draft pick. They'd pay a tax of $270k on that overage (assuming it was indeed the full $360k), so it'd be pricey, but it might not be out of the question if that additional amount could bring in another one of the tough signs.

[pots]

If they're willing to spend a little more heavily, the Astros can go up $360,000 over the cap limit without surrendering a future draft pick. They'd pay a tax of $270k on that overage (assuming it was indeed the full $360k), so it'd be pricey, but it might not be out of the question if that additional amount could bring in another one of the tough signs.

Where did you come up with 360k?  4.99% of 11,177,700 is 558k.  I was under the impression they could go over up to < 5% before surrendering a draft pick?

[moriartp]

Where did you come up with 360k?  4.99% of 11,177,700 is 558k.  I was under the impression they could go over up to < 5% before surrendering a draft pick?

Oh, I'm dumb. I was using the $7.2mm allotted to 1-1 as the entire pool. Whoops.

[OregonStrosFan]

So, for those into the numbers and with a background on the specific tough signs, does it look plausible that they can take realistic stabs at them all, or just two or three?  IIRC, there are at least four: McCullers, Ruiz, Virant and Hinojosa.  Are there more?  As always, mildly informed speculation is acceptable.  

Lets look at the math (and remember, I do lawyer math so take this post fwiw...).

Current bonus pool allotment underage: $2,431,900

Rd. 10 (signed) and Rd. 7 (CBWS - unsigned) picks are both Seniors (i.e. no leverage).  Those 2 picks are worth approximately $275,000 in the Astros $11,177,700 bonus pool allotment.  It is reasonable that the total bonuses of both picks together could be less thank $100,000.  For purposes of making a 'clean' current bonus pool underage number, lets say that the Astros 'save' $168,100 between the two picks (making the bonus pool underage now $2.6M).

Now, the slotted allotments for the 4 players you mentioned are as follows (rounded to nearest $10K):

McCullers = $1.26M; Ruiz = $360K; Virant =<$100K; Hinojosa = <$100K

The number that has been bantered about for McCullers is +/-$2.5M, so lets 'presume' he signs for $2.46M (between slot for #12 and #13 overall picks).  $2.46M would be eat into the current underage by $1.2M, leaving HOU with another $1.4M 'underage' to work with.

If HOU can get Ruiz to agree to 'basically' middle of the pack 1st round supplemental money (e.g. pick 46, or 16th of 30 1S picks), that would be about $1.11M. Since his slotted amount is $360K, a $1.11M signing would eat into HOUs 'underage' of $1.4M by $750K, leaving HOU with a $650K 'underage' to work with.  

Based on those calcs, HOU could pay either Virant or Honojosa $850,000 and still be within the slotting amount.  IMO, that seems quite doable.  Signing both would seem a bit difficult though.

Even then, HOU could still have an extra $1.0M to play with to sign the other, or to spend on others, if it:

(a) saved $200K on the numbers I've noted above (e.g. Ruiz signs for a cool $1.0M and McCullers signs for $2.37M, could happen, who knows)
(b) saved $150K by signing Rd 2 and Rd 8 picks for under slotted value (a decent chance IMO based on the way a lot of the numbers have worked out on signings thusfar); and
(c) was willing to spend the $550K they'd be subject to tax on but not a loss of picks (per 'pots' calc).

[Math: $200K + $150K + $550K + $100K (not subject to pool) = $1.0M].

I know, not 'particularly likely', but still...

Anyway... I'm done with math for the day.  That is how the numbers 'could' work out, feel free to guesstimate as you will...  (And FWIW, my guess on McCullers is $2.5M...).

[tlott33]

So who would you prefer to get? Virant or Hinojosa? And does anyone think there is any shot of signing Traver (39th round)?

[Bench]

Astros sign OF Brett Phillips (6th round); OF Marc Wik (21st); LHP Kenneth Long (22nd); IF Ryan Dineen (25th); RHP Michael Hauschild (33rd).

Per McTweetart.

[astrosfan76]

So who would you prefer to get? Virant or Hinojosa? And does anyone think there is any shot of signing Traver (39th round)?

Not that we couldn't use prospects everywhere, but there is a dearth of LHP in the system, so I'd go with Virant.  Traver is probably lower on the priority list, but I would guess that if we can't work out something with the first two that they'll make a run at him.

[JackAstro]

So who would you prefer to get? Virant or Hinojosa? And does anyone think there is any shot of signing Traver (39th round)?

If the Astros can't get them both, I'd prefer it be Virant. Pragmatically, you can never have too many high-upside arms, and the Correa pick makes Hinojosa the lesser need. More importantly, hook 'em, that's why.

[roadrunner]

Let's say McCullers signs.  Can we start guessing the new top 5 prospects?

1. Correa
2. Singleton
3. Springer
4. McCullers
5. Cosart

?

[juliogotay]

Let's say McCullers signs.  Can we start guessing the new top 5 prospects?

1. Correa
2. Singleton
3. Springer
4. McCullers
5. Cosart

?

Good list I think. I may have Folty ahead of Cosart based on this year's performance to date. Rounding out the top 10: Cosart (6) Clemens (7) Santana( DeShields (9) and Villar (10).
I'm kinda excited about Fontana. Sounds like a good player. Not sure where he fits on this team, though.

[pots]

Coming into this season according to astros.com
1) Singleton
2) Cosart
3) Springer
4) Villar
5) Folty
6) Clemens
7) Oberholtzer
8 ) DeShields
9) Santana
10) Nash
11) Jordan Scott
12) Bushue
13) Wates
14) Chapman
15) Weiland
16) Buchanan
17) Tropeano
18) Juan Abreu
19) Zied
20) Kvasnicka


MHO after the draftee signings (only assuming the first 10 rounds):

1) Correa
2) Singleton
3) Springer
4) Folty
5) McCullers
6) Oberholtzer
7) Tropeano
8 ) Cosart
9) DeShields
10) Villar
11) Keuchel
12) Santana
13) Ruiz
14) Clemens
15) Wates
16) Fontana
17) Alaniz
18) Phillips
19) Cisnero
20) Kvasnicka
21) Rodgers
22) Mier
23) Houser
24) Nash
25) Duffy

[OregonStrosFan]

The prospect pundits tend to agree that Correa would currently be ranked as the Astros top prospect, but for me its still Singleton.

[pots]

The prospect pundits tend to agree that Correa would currently be ranked as the Astros top prospect, but for me its still Singleton.

If you believe in the hype and he plays a good SS, then I have to put him 1st.

The kicker for me was DeShields.  He has really put together a nice season and yet I had him fall a spot.

[OregonStrosFan]

If you believe in the hype and he plays a good SS, then I have to put him 1st.

Not that I believe or disbelieve the hype - more that I'm really like what Singleton has proven he can do as a 20 year old at Double-A combined with the potential that he has.  [And no, not knocking a ranking of Correa as 1, just am unwilling to knock Singleton to 2 (yet)].

[roadrunner]

It's encouraging.  The depth of the organization seems to be filling back up.  Now we just need to see more guys start popping in the top 100 lists.  Right now I only think Correa, Singleton, and Springer would be on those, and all 3 probably higher than 25.

[pots]

It's encouraging.  The depth of the organization seems to be filling back up.  Now we just need to see more guys start popping in the top 100 lists.  Right now I only think Correa, Singleton, and Springer would be on those, and all 3 probably higher than 25.

I think Folty will start to crack a few top 100 lists

[jbm]

It's encouraging.  The depth of the organization seems to be filling back up.  Now we just need to see more guys start popping in the top 100 lists.

Guys like Altuve?

Rankings matter because .........

[OregonStrosFan]

Rankings matter because .........

Because I get sick and tired of reading about how bad the Astros farm system sucks (and that is a good enough reason for me).  Other than that, I'm not sure...

[pots]

Because I get sick and tired of reading about how bad the Astros farm system sucks

+1

[roadrunner]

Because I get sick and tired of reading about how bad the Astros farm system sucks (and that is a good enough reason for me).  Other than that, I'm not sure...

Yeah that's enough for me, too.

[geezerdonk]

When is Correa's first game?

[astrosfan76]

When is Correa's first game?

Their season starts on Monday.

[moriartp]

Opening days for each of the stateside short-season affiliates:

GCL Astros: Mon 6/18
Greeneville: Tues 6/19
Tri-City: Mon 6/18

I am more than ready for short-season ball to start. Three more box scores to check every night? It's like Christmas.

[astrosfan76]

Opening days for each of the stateside short-season affiliates:

GCL Astros: Mon 6/18
Greeneville: Tues 6/19
Tri-City: Mon 6/18

I am more than ready for short-season ball to start. Three more box scores to check every night? It's like Christmas.

And they'll all be EST, so we can check the final box score before going to bed, unlike Lancaster and future Astros.

[OregonStrosFan]

And they'll all be EST, so we can check the final box score before going to bed, unlike Lancaster and future Astros.

What are you talking about? Lancaster games are almost always over before bed time...

[OregonStrosFan]

2012 DRAFT SIGNING STATUS AND 'BONUS POOL' IMPLICATIONS

Overall Signing Status: This is being updated to add the signing of 21st round pick Mark Wik (per the post from Bench).  he Astros have signed 26 of their 41 2012 Draft picks and have signed 1 non-drafted free agent SS.  Included in the 15 unsigned draft picks are 4 players currently playing in the College World Series (denoted as '[CBWS]' below), and are thus unable to begin negotiations currently.  These 4 players are: Rd. 2 - Nolan Fontana (Florida); Rd. 7 - Preston Tucker (Florida); Rd. 8 - Tyler Heineman (UCLA); and Rd. 20 - Michael Clark (Kent State).

Official Signings: These have previously been noted (with Wik being added to the chart today), but per McTaggart's Tweet from yesterday we'll call them 'official':  Astros sign OF Brett Phillips (6th round); OF Marc Wik (21st); LHP Kenneth Long (22nd); IF Ryan Dineen (25th); RHP Michael Hauschild (33rd).

Unofficial Signings: no new information.

Astros $11,177,700 total 'bonus pool' information per Baseball America (LINK).  Referenced bonus pool 'slotting allotments' per pick via Baseball America (LINK).

Per available information, the Astros are currently $2,431,900 under their bonus pool allotment.  This is calculated as follows (note: presently the Astros total bonus pool maximum of $11,177,700 is not 'at issue' as not all picks in the first 10 rounds have signed, hence the values noted below are only for picks: 1.1; 3.96; 5.159; 6.189; 9.279; and 10.309): $8,422,900 (slotted value of signed picks) - $5,865,200 (actual signing bonus amounts) = $2,431,900 under slotted value and may be applied to other picks. 


2012 DRAFT SIGNING STATUS AND 'BONUS POOL' IMPLICATIONS

Draftee Carlos Correa Lance McCullers Jr. Nolan Fontana Brady Rodgers Rio Ruiz Andrew Aplin Brett Phillips Preston Tucker Tyler Heineman Daniel Minor Joseph Bircher Hunter Virant Terrell Joyce Brian Holmes Jooel Sciafani Erick Gonzalez Dan Gulbransen Aaron West Ricky Gringras Austin Elkins Michael Clark Marc Wik Kenneth Long Travis Ballew Partick Blair Ryan Dineen C. J. Hinojosa Tanner Mathis Angel Ibanez Christian Garcia John Neely M. P. Cokinos Tyler Manez Mike Hauschild Jordan Jankowski James Sinatro Michael Martinez Michael Dimock Zachary Remillard Mitchell Traver Joe Shaw Non-drafted FA signings Brian Blasik

Rd/Pick          (1) 1 (Comp A) 41 (2) 61 (3) 96 (4) 129 (5) 159 (6) 189 (7) 219 (8) 249 (9) 279 (10) 309 (11) 339 (12) 369 (13) 399 (14) 429 (15) 459 (16) 489 (17) 519 (18) 549 (19) 579 (20) 609 (21) 639 (22) 669 (23) 699 (24) 729 (25) 759 (26) 789 (27) 819 (28) 849 (29) 879 (30) 909 (31) 939 (32) 969 (33) 999 (34) 1029 (35) 1059 (36) 1089 (37) 1119 (38) 1149 (39) 1179 (40) 1209 n/a

Signed    Yes    - [CBWS]   Yes    -   Yes   Yes [CBWS] [CBWS]   Yes   Yes    -   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes [CBWS]   Yes   Yes   Yes    -   Yes    -    -   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes    -   Yes   Yes    -   Yes   Yes    -    -    -   Yes

Allotment       $7,200,000  $1,258,700    $844,100    $495,200    $360,200    $269,700    $201,900    $151,400    $140,400    $131,100    $125,000 [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000]

Signed for   $4,800,000   (unsigned)   (unsigned)    $495,200   (unsigned)    $220,000    $300,000   (unsigned)   (unsigned)     $50,000   (unknown)         --         --    $100,000         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --                       --

over/[under]  [$2,400,000]         --         --              $0         --     [$49,700]      $98,900         --         --     [$81,800]    (unknown)         --         --             $0         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --                     --

Class     HS    HS    JR    JR    HS    JR    HS    SR    JR    JR    SR    HS    J2    JR    JR    J2    JR    SR    JR    JR    JR    J2    5S    JR    JR    JR    HS    JR    JR    J2    SR    JR    HS    SR    SR    HS    SR    SR    HS    HS    HS            SR

DOB    09/22/94 10/02/93 06/06/91 09/17/90 05/22/94 03/21/91 05/30/94 07/06/90 06/19/91 02/09/91 03/27/90 01/22/94 05/29/92 01/30/91 04/22/90 01/10/92 01/05/91 06/01/90 10/18/90 12/21/90 06/11/91 07/18/92 01/28/89 05/01/91 10/01/91 03/02/91 07/15/94 06/27/91 09/10/90 09/24/91 07/09/90 06/18/90 01/01/94 01/22/90 05/17/89 09/03/93 12/05/89 10/26/89 02/21/94 05/03/94 12/20/93      ??

Scouting Report links

[jbm]

Rodgers signed for the exact allotment?  Kind of weird, actually. 

He should have held out for a couple of bucks more, just to claim victory. 

[OregonStrosFan]

Rodgers signed for the exact allotment?  Kind of weird, actually.  

He should have held out for a couple of bucks more, just to claim victory.  

He wanted to show that he was a team player...

[jbm]

I am aware of the dynamics.  Sarc meter? 

[astrosfan76]

Question to Callis in today's chat:

Josh (Lake Charles, LA): Thanks for the chat. If you were the Astros, in what order would you try to sign these guys: Ruiz, Virant, Hinojosa, and Traver? Which do you see signing?


Jim Callis: Virant, Hinojosa, Ruiz, Traver. Traver tweeted something yesterday about having surgery, so he's out of the mix. Hinojosa is unsignable from everything I've heard. I think they have a shot at at least one of Ruiz and Virant, and maybe they pull off both.

The Traver revelation is new.  You'd think that the club would have known about it a week ago, though.  I'm not suggesting that the club will sign him, but it wouldn't have caught them off-guard.  If Hinojosa doesn't sign, based on the figures OSF (et. al) have come up with, I'd think we have a pretty good shot at the other two.  I wonder how came to that order.  Personally, I like Ruiz most and he seems to have more offensive potential than Hinojosa.  I wonder if position played a big role; Callis does tend to factor that in comparisons.

[Reuben]

Question to Callis in today's chat:

The Traver revelation is new.  You'd think that the club would have known about it a week ago, though.  I'm not suggesting that the club will sign him, but it wouldn't have caught them off-guard.  If Hinojosa doesn't sign, based on the figures OSF (et. al) have come up with, I'd think we have a pretty good shot at the other two.  I wonder how came to that order.  Personally, I like Ruiz most and he seems to have more offensive potential than Hinojosa.  I wonder if position played a big role; Callis does tend to factor that in comparisons.

Good point re. Traver. I figured the Astros took Hinojosa and Traver as fall-backs: in case Virant doesn't like the cash they're able to scrape together, they still can throw it at Hinojosa and/or Traver depending how much they have. I'm assuming they wouldn't have taken Ruiz in the first 10 rounds unless they were pretty sure they can sign him, because his slot money goes away otherwise.

[moriartp]

In case you're wondering where all the draftees will be headed, McTaggart's blog has rosters for the short-season teams.

[OregonStrosFan]

Update on McCullers via his Twitter account (LINK 1; LINK 2):

#Gators‬ & ‪#Astros‬ fans I know you have been tweeting at me about my upcoming decision. I am currently in negotiations & these things (1/2)... (2/2) take time. I am excited about both roads but have to wait & see what is best for me! Thank you for the support and as always ‪#SIUEFA‬

FWIW (and I've read similar 'prognostications'): HOU will have McCullers in town when they get back from the road.  I'd expect a similar signing/presentation thingie (like HOU had with Correa) during the Royals series (6/18-6/20).

[BUWebguy]

What does "SIUEFA‬" stand for/mean?

[Duman]

What does "SIUEFA‬" stand for/mean?

IDK

[jbm]

Saw the Gators play last night. Fontana is certainly a capable glove.  Tucker's development will be interesting.  I realize not much is expected from that round and I have no idea if he is a capable outfielder.  He swings with intent with a Berkman-like flat swing, but seems a little off balance.  Saw him make contact with a lot of tough pitches he should have laid off.  Seems kind of raw to me, but not without possibility. 

[hostros7]

Update on McCullers via his Twitter account (LINK 1; LINK 2):

#Gators‬ & ‪#Astros‬ fans I know you have been tweeting at me about my upcoming decision. I am currently in negotiations & these things (1/2)... (2/2) take time. I am excited about both roads but have to wait & see what is best for me! Thank you for the support and as always ‪#SIUEFA‬

FWIW (and I've read similar 'prognostications'): HOU will have McCullers in town when they get back from the road.  I'd expect a similar signing/presentation thingie (like HOU had with Correa) during the Royals series (6/18-6/20).   

Levine tweeting confirming the "prognostications."  McCullers heading to Houston for his physical.

[OregonStrosFan]

Levine tweeting confirming the "prognostications."  McCullers heading to Houston for his physical.

And Caliis confirms my other one...  Twitter LINK

‪#Astros‬ agree w/supp 1st-rder Lance McCullers on $2.5 mil. Pick value at 41 is $1,258,700. That's most over value in ‪#mlbdraft‬ this year.

...(And FWIW, my guess on McCullers is $2.5M...)...

[moriartp]

More Callis: Even after McCullers signing, #Astros still have saved nearly $1.3 mil vs bonus pool. Hello, Rio Ruiz and/or Hunter Virant.

[OregonStrosFan]

More Callis: Even after McCullers signing, #Astros still have saved nearly $1.3 mil vs bonus pool. Hello, Rio Ruiz and/or Hunter Virant.

A lawyer's guide to the math of a $2.5M McCullers Jr. signing (and yes, I used $2.46M because it was 'cleaner'...) as it could relate to a Ruiz, Virant, and/or Hinojosa signing(s).

[OregonStrosFan]

2012 DRAFT SIGNING STATUS AND 'BONUS POOL' IMPLICATIONS

Overall Signing Status: With the 'pending' signing of Comp A (41st overall) pick Lance McCullers Jr. (per multiple sources as included in this MLBTR link), the Astros have signed 27 of their 41 2012 Draft picks and have signed 1 non-drafted free agent SS. 4 of the 14 unsigned draft picks are currently playing in the College World Series (denoted as '[CBWS]' below), and are thus unable to begin negotiations currently.  These 4 players are: Rd. 2 - Nolan Fontana (Florida); Rd. 7 - Preston Tucker (Florida); Rd. 8 - Tyler Heineman (UCLA); and Rd. 20 - Michael Clark (Kent State).

Official Signings: none.

Unofficial Signings: See MLBTR link.

Astros $11,177,700 total 'bonus pool' information per Baseball America (LINK).  Referenced bonus pool 'slotting allotments' per pick via Baseball America (LINK).

'Actual' signing bonuses referenced links: BA's Jim Callis reports that the signing bonus for Comp A (1st round supplemental, 41st pick overall) pick Lance McCullers Jr is $2,500,000 ($1,241,300 above the slotted value for that pick). LINK.  Additionally, BA has posted the signing bonus for 10th round pick Joseph Bircher at $20,000 ($105,000 under slotted value for that pick). LINK.  I have also corrected an error in the previous charts as follows: 6th round pick Phillips signed for $98,100 over the slotted value for pick 189, not $98,900 as I'd previously noted ($800 change).

Per available information, the Astros are currently $1,296,400 under their bonus pool allotment.  This is calculated as follows (note: presently the Astros total bonus pool maximum of $11,177,700 is not 'at issue' as not all picks in the first 10 rounds have signed, hence the values noted below are only for picks: 1.1; CompA.41; 3.96; 5.159; 6.189; 9.279; and 10.309): $9,681,600 (slotted value of signed picks) - $8,385,200 (actual signing bonus amounts) = $1,296,400 under slotted value and may be applied to other picks.  


2012 DRAFT SIGNING STATUS AND 'BONUS POOL' IMPLICATIONS

Draftee Carlos Correa Lance McCullers Jr. Nolan Fontana Brady Rodgers Rio Ruiz Andrew Aplin Brett Phillips Preston Tucker Tyler Heineman Daniel Minor Joseph Bircher Hunter Virant Terrell Joyce Brian Holmes Jooel Sciafani Erick Gonzalez Dan Gulbransen Aaron West Ricky Gringras Austin Elkins Michael Clark Marc Wik Kenneth Long Travis Ballew Partick Blair Ryan Dineen C. J. Hinojosa Tanner Mathis Angel Ibanez Christian Garcia John Neely M. P. Cokinos Tyler Manez Mike Hauschild Jordan Jankowski James Sinatro Michael Martinez Michael Dimock Zachary Remillard Mitchell Traver Joe Shaw Non-drafted FA signings Brian Blasik

Rd/Pick           (1) 1 (Comp A) 41 (2) 61 (3) 96 (4) 129 (5) 159 (6) 189 (7) 219 (8) 249 (9) 279 (10) 309 (11) 339 (12) 369 (13) 399 (14) 429 (15) 459 (16) 489 (17) 519 (18) 549 (19) 579 (20) 609 (21) 639 (22) 669 (23) 699 (24) 729 (25) 759 (26) 789 (27) 819 (28) 849 (29) 879 (30) 909 (31) 939 (32) 969 (33) 999 (34) 1029 (35) 1059 (36) 1089 (37) 1119 (38) 1149 (39) 1179 (40) 1209 n/a

Signed     Yes   Yes [CBWS]   Yes    -   Yes   Yes [CBWS] [CBWS]   Yes   Yes    -   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes [CBWS]   Yes   Yes   Yes    -   Yes    -    -   Yes   Yes   Yes   Yes    -   Yes   Yes    -   Yes   Yes    -    -    -   Yes

Allotment      $7,200,000  $1,258,700    $844,100    $495,200    $360,200    $269,700    $201,900    $151,400    $140,400    $131,100    $125,000 [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000] [<$100,000]

Signed for    $4,800,000  $2,500,000   (unsigned)    $495,200   (unsigned)    $220,000    $300,000   (unsigned)   (unsigned)     $50,000     $20,000         --         --    $100,000         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --                       --

over/[under]  [$2,400,000]   $1,241,300         --              $0         --     [$49,700]      $98,100         --         --     [$81,800]    [$105,000]         --         --             $0         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --         --                   --

POS  SS RHP SS RHP 3B CF CF OF C RHP LHP LHP LF LHP SS RHP LF RP C 2B LHP CF LHP RHP SS SS SS CF 3B RHP RHP C LHP RHP RHP C 1B RHP 3B RHP RHP

Class      HS    HS    JR    JR    HS    JR    HS    SR    JR    JR    SR    HS    J2    JR    JR    J2    JR    SR    JR    JR    JR    J2    5S    JR    JR    JR    HS    JR    JR    J2    SR    JR    HS    SR    SR    HS    SR    SR    HS    HS    HS          SR

DOB     09/22/94 10/02/93 06/06/91 09/17/90 05/22/94 03/21/91 05/30/94 07/06/90 06/19/91 02/09/91 03/27/90 01/22/94 05/29/92 01/30/91 04/22/90 01/10/92 01/05/91 06/01/90 10/18/90 12/21/90 06/11/91 07/18/92 01/28/89 05/01/91 10/01/91 03/02/91 07/15/94 06/27/91 09/10/90 09/24/91 07/09/90 06/18/90 01/01/94 01/22/90 05/17/89 09/03/93 12/05/89 10/26/89 02/21/94 05/03/94 12/20/93      ??

Scouting Report links

[tlott33]

So where does McCullers go if/when he signs? GCL?

[Duman]

Astros MO has been send high profile HS draft picks to GCL to get their feet wet then send them to Greeneville.  For players it has been 8-10 games for pitchers it has been after a few starts. So I am hoping to see Corea and McCullers in short order.

[astrosfan76]

Astros MO has been send high profile HS draft picks to GCL to get their feet wet then send them to Greeneville.  For players it has been 8-10 games for pitchers it has been after a few starts. So I am hoping to see Corea and McCullers in short order.

You'll get to see at least one...

Zachary Levine ‏@zacharylevine

Lance McCullers will start his pro career in GCL then probably go to Greeneville later this year.

On a related note, Correa went 1-5 with a walk and an error in his pro debut.  He added a steal in there, as well. 

[astrosfan76]

Brian McTaggart ‏@brianmctaggart

Boras compares McCullers' HS dominance to Jered Weaver in college

It's okay, Scott, he's already signed, you can stop selling him now.  On a side note, I don't really think Weaver when I hear McCullers' name, but I will take the stats, if that's alright.

[Reuben]

An odd little note in this local-boy story on McCullers...

Last year’s 14th overall pick, former Alonso pitcher Jose Fernandez, signed for $2 million, which was then a county record. McCullers will spend this offseason working out with Fernandez, a close friend, current Phillies pitcher Jose Contreras and Orlando Chinea, the former pitching coach for the Cuban national team.

Fernandez is the Marlins' prospect currently dominating the Sally league. He's from Cuba originally, which I guess explains Contreras and the other guy.

[jbm]

Well, the Gators are done. Let the next chips fall.