July 24, 2005 at 9:45 AM
Sox ink Hansen to four-year deal
According to this morning's Boston Globe, the Red Sox have finally signed first-round pick Craig Hansen to a contract. The 26th pick overall signed a four-year, $4 million major league deal, and will report to the team's facility in Ft. Myers, Fla.
Hansen was considered a top 10 talent or higher and among the most Major League ready players in this year's draft. However, he slid because of signability issues, reportedly turning down a contract to be selected earlier by the Florida Marlins. His agent is Scott Boras, another factor that may have impacted his slide.
The closer was 3-2 at St. John's this season, posting a 1.68 ERA with 14 saves in 31 appearances. In 64 1/3 innings, he struck out 85 batters, walking 20. He will likely report to Advanced-A Wilmington or Double-A Portland according to the Globe.