Baseball draft updates

Posted Jun 16, 2010 by Adam Adkins

Updated Jun 16, 2010 at 01:22 PM

University of Tampa right-handed pitcher A.J. Pinera, a Sickles High prodcut, said Wednesday that he has signed with the New York Mets, which selected him in the 18th round in the Major League Baseball draft last week.

Pinera said he has reported to Brooklyn, N.Y., where he will begin his pro career with the Mets’ affiliate in the Class A short-season New York-Penn League, the Brooklyn Cycolnes.

Also, Brooks-DeBartolo infielder Jadamion Williams and his older brother, outfielder Reggie Williams Jr., each have signed according to Baseball America.

Both players were 10th round selections this year, Jadamion by Minnesota and Reggie Jr., who spent this past season at Middle Georgia College, by St. Louis. Each received a $125,000 signing bonus, according to Baseball America.

And, former Hillsborough outfielder David Richardson, who spent this past season at Hillsborough Community College, said Wednesday that he has signed with the Baltimore Orioles, who selected him in the 17th round.

Richardson has reported to Sarasota and will begin his pro career with the Orioles’ affiliate in the rookie-level Gulf Coast League.