The Tampa Bay Rays signed their 2015 first round pick, outfielder Garrett Whitley.
"This is an unbelievable experience," said Whitley at Tropicana Field. "Playing professional baseball has been my dream for my entire life and now today it became official. I mean the draft was amazing and today to actually sign that contract is on a whole different level."
The 18-year-old took batting practice with the team Tuesday. He will start his pro career with the Gulf Coast League Rays.
"Today was a lot of fun but what I've really been looking forward to is actually starting my professional career, playing ball every day and getting to do what I love," said Whitley.
Whitley, the first major league draft pick from Niskayuna High School, was the highest high school draft selection from New York state since the Cleveland Indians selected Manny Ramirez in 1991, also with the No. 13 selection.
During his senior campaign, Whitley hit .351 with a .479 on-base percentage, three home runs, 13 RBI and 24 runs scored. He also went 15-for-15 in stolen base attempts in 20 games played.
According to Baseball America, MLB’s suggested maximum signing bonus for a player in the 13th draft spot is $2.96 million.
He was ranked by Baseball America as the No. 7 overall prospect and No. 2 outfielder in this year’s draft, and was named the Gatorade New York Baseball Player of the Year.