The Toronto Blue Jays have officially signed first-round pick Marcus Stroman, reports Stroman himself.
Officially a member of THE Toronto Blue Jays! Signed my contract. Beyond excited and blessed. Ready to work! #BlueJays #HDMH #CANADA
— Marcus Stroman (@MStrooo7) July 3, 2012
The 22nd overall pick in last month's draft, Stroman's signing bonus is worth an estimated $1.8 million. The nearly two million dollar deal is right in line with the allotted amount designate for his draft slot, reports Keith Law of ESPN.
A right-handed pitcher out of Duke University, the 5' 9" Stroman started 14 games for the Blue Devils this season, putting up a 2.39 ERA and striking out 136 batters in 98 innings. Several scouts believe that Stroman's repertoire is polished enough that he could reach Toronto's bullpen by the season's end.
Only five first-round picks remain unsigned, including pre-draft favorite Mark Appel. Be sure to keep an eye on our signing tracker as the July 17 signing deadline approaches.