The wait is over for now graduated Shenendehowa star Ian Anderson. The pitcher, who helped lead the Plainsmen to the NYS Class AA state title, has signed a professional deal with the Atlanta Braves.

The No. 3 overall pick signs for $4 million:

It's a win for both Anderson and the Braves. For Anderson, he went several spots higher than had been anticipated (most mock drafts had him between 10-25). For the Braves? They saved money on Anderson (more than $2.5 million) and that savings allowed them to also successfully sign the No. 40 and No. 44 picks in the draft.

Anderson headed to the Gulf Coast League on Sunday to play with the Braves affiliate in Florida. He's armed with a low-mid 90s fastball, a good curveball and a "plus" changeup.

The Braves are set up for success in the future. Despite being awful currently, Anderson leads a trio of young pitchers (No. 40 and No. 44 in the draft were also pitchers) and the Braves also have Dansby Swanson, the SS who was the No. 1 pick in the draft last year.

 

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