The Pittsburgh Pirates have signed right-handed pitcher Gage Hinsz to an over-slot deal, according to Jim Callis.
11th-rder Gage Hinsz agrees to terms w/@Pirates for $580k ($480k counts vs pool). Projectable Montana HS RHP, up to 93 already. @MLBDraft
— Jim Callis (@jimcallisMLB) July 6, 2014
Hinsz was an 11th round pick out of high school, and was able to command a high bonus. Any pick after the 10th round can receive up to $100,000 before counting against the bonus pool. Any amount over that first $100,000 counts towards the pool. Hinsz was signed for $580,000, which means only $480,000 counts towards the bonus pool.
The Pirates had $131,300 remaining in their bonus pool, although they’re able to go up to 5% over their bonus pool without losing a future draft pick. They went right up to the limit, as 5% amounts to $484,485 total that they could have spent. The Pirates only have $4,485 remaining before they’d lose a draft pick, which means they’re likely done signing picks. The Pirates will have to pay a fine on the overage, paying a 75% tax on the amount above their bonus pool. Their fine is an extra $261,525. You can’t really attribute that money to Hinsz, since it reflects the total money spent.
Hinsz is a projectable pitcher with some good upside. We ranked him the 20th best prospect in the system in our mid-season update. For more on Hinsz, check out his player page.
