October 11, 2008 Southpaw Brian Matusz tossed three hitless innings for the Surprise Rafters on Saturday afternoon. It was the pitcher's first pro appearances. Matusz, 21, was the fourth overall pick in the 2008 amateur draft. He threw 45 pitches (26 strikes) on Saturday, walked one, and struck out one.
Our View:Matusz was considered a solid, safe pick by the Orioles. We don't expect a David Price-like ascent through the minors next year, but the Orioles won't likely hold the former University of San Diego star back too much. Scouts vary a bit on his potential, but you don't draft a guy at No. 4 if you don't think he can be an ace.
August 15, 2008 The Orioles signed first-round draft pick Brian Matusz to a contract with a $3.2 million signing bonus, according to MLB.com. Matusz, who went to college at San Diego, was the first pitcher taken in the June draft.
Our View:Nothing like waiting until the last minute. The contract was completed roughly eight hours before the deadline. The lefty be immediately placed on the 40-man roster and should be a fast riser.
