Brewers reach deal with comp pick Kirby
The Brewers announced before Friday's signing deadline of 4 p.m. CT that they have signed left-hander Nathan Kirby, their Competitive Balance Round A selection in this year's MLB Draft.
According to MLBPipeline.com's Jim Callis, Kirby's bonus is worth $1.25 million, which is below the slot value of $1,545,400 for the Draft's 40th overall pick. Callis also reported that until injury concerns arose, Kirby had an above-slot deal in place with Milwaukee. Kirby missed most of the season with a lat strain. The club hasn't confirmed the value of the bonus.
Kirby, 21, helped lead Virginia to its first NCAA title this past season by working a two-inning save and striking out five in the clinching game. He was 5-3 with a 2.53 ERA in 12 games (11 starts) and held opponents to a .236 average. Kirby also struck out 81 batters in 64 innings.
Kirby will begin his professional career with Class A Wisconsin.
The Brewers also signed catcher Max McDowell (13th round, University of Connecticut) and right-handers Michael Petersen (17th, Riverside Community College) and Jordan Desguin (36th, Florida Gulf Coast University).
Milwaukee signed its top 22 Draft picks and 31 draftees overall.