The Cardinals officially signed first-round draft pick Michael Wacha to a contract today. Terms weren't announced, but Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com reported (on Twitter) that Wacha received a $1.9MM bonus, which matches MLB's recommendation for the 19th overall draft selection. Wacha himself tweeted that he was flying to St. Louis for his physical on Wednesday.
The Texas A&M right-hander was touted by Baseball America as one of the year's top draft-eligible college pitchers. Wacha's repertoire includes the best changeup in the draft and a fastball that sits in the 90-93 mph range, according to the publication.
stl_cards16
The new #5!!!!! Albert who?
Joe Schroeder
Wacha’s FB was 92-96 mph on ESPN3 vs Dayton in the Regional opening round. He has the ability and mentality to develop into a front of the rotation SP in the big leagues. It’s pretty easy to see— after one live view of him and his stuff.
Kevin Miller
Wacha, Wacha, Wacha
NYBravosFan10
damn you beat me to it
bigpat
Wacha Flocka!
Msvhs79
Sure hope he lives up to the signing!!!
TruthHonorCourage
Wacha was one of two players I liked at no. 10 for the Rockies (along with Richie Shaffer), until Lucas Gioloto fell. Right now, Wacha, with his pitch mix, could profile as a back-end reliever, where his fastball might play up more. With more development of his breaking pitches, he looks like a solid no. 3 to me at least.
The Cardinals know pitching and have done an excellent job drafting and signing talent.
Colorado Rockies Prospects Report
Eric Lanigan
So far this pick has turned out to be pretty good. Go Wacha!