HOUSTON -- During a press conference held at Minute Maid Park Friday afternoon, the Houston Astros announced the signing of right-handed pitcher Michael Foltynewicz, whom they selected in the first round of the 2010 MLB First Year Player Draft.
Foltynewicz is scheduled to report to Greeneville today, where the Appalachian League's rookie team begins play next week.
Astros Assistant General Manager/Director of Scouting Bobby Heck made the official announcement of the signing. Terms of the contract were not disclosed.
Foltynewicz, who was the 19th overall pick in the draft, was one of two players selected by Houston in the first round. The Astros also selected Delino DeShields with the eighth overall pick in the draft. Foltynewicz was scouted by Astros Amateur Scout Troy Hoerner.
"We really like the physical side of him," Hoerner said of Foltynewicz. "He's big, he's strong, he's a competitor, and he has an easy, solid delivery. As the spring went on, he developed more and more. He has great feel and he's poised for someone so young. And, the more I got to know he and his family, the more I realized he has great character."
Foltynewicz, 18, was 9-1 with an 0.38 ERA this season at Minooka Community High School in Minooka, Illinois. The 6-5, 195 lb. right-hander fanned 128 batters in just 72.2 innings of work. He also had success at the plate for Minooka with eight home runs and 39 RBI.
"Adding Mike to the Houston Astros today is another big step forward in our commitment to upgrade our organization's talent," Heck commented. "The physical abilities are easily recognized, but are matched by his make-up and his dedication to reach his potential upside. Our scout, Troy Hoerner, not only did an outstanding job of recognizing Mike's talent but also in finding out about how this kid is made and about the quality family environment that helped nurture him to this opportunity."
Foltynewicz threw in the Astros bullpen after the press conference while manager Brad Mills and pitching coach Brad Arnsberg looked on. He will begin his professional baseball career as a member of the Greeneville Astros of the Appalachian League.
"I'm very honored to be with the Astros," said Foltynewicz during the press conference. "It was a thrill to be drafted. That was special. After being taken, my goal was to get signed and start playing as soon as possible."
The Astros have now signed 26 of their 52 Draft picks, including 15 players taken in the first 20 rounds.
