(SportsRadio 610) - The Astros' top two draft picks from last week have officially signed with the team.
Outfielders Drew Gilbert and Jacob Melton both signed with the Astros Monday. Gilbert was selected 28th overall in the first round out of Tennessee. Melton was taken 64th overall in the second round out of Oregon State.
Gilbert signed for $2.5 million, according to Jim Callis of MLB Pipeline. Melton signed for $1 million, Callis reported.
The Astros also signed their ninth-round pick, right-handed pitcher Brett Gillis. Eleven of Houston's 21 selections from the 2022 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft. The deadline for teams to sign their draft picks is Aug. 1.
Kris Gross, the Astros' director of scouting, said Gilbert will report this week to the Astros' spring training complex in West Palm Beach, Florida. He will be brought to Minute Maid Park for a formal introduction with media members after his minor league season.
Gilbert told Mark Berman of Fox 26 that this is what he always envisioned for himself.
Gilbert, 21, a left-handed hitting and throwing center fielder, slashed .362/.455/.673 with 21 doubles, four triples, 11 homers and 70 RBI in 58 games for the Volunteers this season. He also walked 33 times, compared to just 32 strikeouts. Gilbert was an All-SEC first team selection and named to the All-SEC defensive team.
Melton, 21, also a left-handed hitting outfielder, slashed .360/.424.671 with 22 doubles, four triples, 17 home runs and 83 RBI in 63 games for Oregon State this season. He was named the Pac-12 Player of the Year and a Perfect Game First-Team All-American selection.
Brandon Scott is the editor for SportsRadio610.com. Follow him on Twitter @brandonkscott. Reach him directly via email: brandon.scott@audacy.com.
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