Cincinnati Reds’ top draft pick Chase Burns has officially signed his contract with the team, solidifying his place on their roster. The No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 MLB draft, Burns secured a hefty $9.25 million signing bonus, breaking the previous record held by Paul Skenes who received $9.2 million from the Pittsburgh Pirates after being drafted first overall in 2023.
Before the 2024 college baseball season, Burns made a strategic move from Tennessee to Wake Forest, where he benefited from training at the renowned Wake Forest “pitching lab” to further develop his skills. His decision proved fruitful as he ascended in the draft rankings, ultimately landing a record-setting bonus with the Reds.
“Big hairy monster. Those are the guys that pitch in the front of the rotations. They pitch in October. They pitch at the end of games. They’re the ones you want to give the ball to,” remarked Reds scouting director Joe Katuska about Burns.
The next steps for Burns include joining the Reds’ spring training complex, where he will resume his pitching routine. Katuska emphasized the importance of managing Burns’ workload carefully to ensure his long-term development and success.
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