As expected, the Colorado Rockies have agreed to terms with their first round selection from the 2011 MLB Draft, Oregon junior left handed pitcher Tyler Anderson.
Anderson had been considered an easy sign, but it appears that momentum towards an early slot deal had slowed, leading to the deadline agreement with a bonus of $1.4million, right around the MLB recommended slot for that draft position.
The lefty is considered a polished college pitcher and should start next season with the Modesto Nuts, with a quick promotion to AA Tulsa in the works based on his performance. He could project to debut in the major leagues as soon as 2013.
This past season in the Pac-10, the Oregon pitcher showed advanced skills on the mound as he struck out 114 batters in just 107.2 innings. He has a good fastball and plus changeup with above average command, and projects as a mid-rotation starter in the major leagues. Former Rockies pitcher and first round selection Jeff Francis profiles as a similar pitcher, and another successful lefty that advanced quickly through the minor leagues.
Anderson will join a list of advanced pitching prospects that could make the Rockies' rotation in the next couple of seasons, including recent acquisitions Alex White and Drew Pomeranz, and recent high draft picks Christian Friedrich and Chad Bettis.