Astros sign first-round compensation pick McCullers
High school right-handed pitcher selected with 41st overall selection in 2012 Draft
HOUSTON, TX -- The Houston Astros announced today the signing of right-handed pitcher Lance McCullers, who they selected in the compensational first round in the 2012 MLB First Year Player Draft. Terms of the contract were not disclosed. Astros Assistant General Manager/Director of Scouting Bobby Heck made the official announcement.
“We’re excited to be here, this is a big moment for us,” said Astros General Manager Jeff Luhnow. “Lance McCullers is a first-round ballplayer and we were delighted to have been able to choose him with our 41st selection this year. We’re excited about the future and bringing in a talent like Lance.”
McCullers, 18, posted a 13-0 record and a 0.18 ERA with 140 strikeouts in 77.1 innings pitched for Jesuit High School in Tampa, FL. He led his club to the Class 5A state semifinals and picked up the Gatorade High School Player of the Year Award in 2012. He also won the 2011 Jackie Robinson Award, which recognizes the country’s top rising senior. McCullers was named an All-American by Louisville Slugger and Baseball America, which ranked him as the 13th overall prospect in the 2012 Draft.
“It’s a dream come true,” said McCullers. “Every single kid who ever played baseball wants to be at this point right now and beyond in the big leagues. I’m just really excited to be here and start my professional career.”
McCullers is the son of former pitcher Lance McCullers Sr., who played in parts of seven Major League seasons for San Diego (1985-88), New York-AL (1989-90), Detroit (1990) and Texas (1992).
ABOUT THE 41ST PICK
LANCE McCULLERS
Position: Right-handed pitcher
Bats/Throws: Left/Right
Height/Weight: 6-2/205
Age: 18
High School: Jesuit HS, Tampa, FL
The 41st overall selection was obtained by Houston in compensation for the free agent loss of shortstop Clint Barmes.