/s3.amazonaws.com/arc-wordpress-client-uploads/tbt/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/03160824/Shane.jpg "USF left-hander Shane McClanahan is expected to sign with the Rays for a bonus of around $2.2 million. (Photo provided by USF Athletics)")
UPDATE, 3:50: The Rays have made the signing official.
In the press release, amateur scouting director Rob Metzler said:
"Shane has very lively and powerful stuff from the left side. This natural arm talent combined with great competitiveness yields the potential to grow into an impactful major league pitcher. We are excited to get Shane started on his professional journey."
DEVELOPING: USF left-hander Shane McClanahan now formally is a Tampa Bay Ray.
The Bulls' 2018 opening night starter indicated via Twitter late Friday morning he has reached an agreement with the Rays, who selected him with the 31st overall pick in last month's big-league draft.
The Tampa Bay Times reported earlier in the morning that McClanahan was close to reaching an agreement with the club, with various sources indicating he had agreed to sign for an amount near his slot value as the No. 31 pick ($2.22 million).
It's believed he initially was seeking a bonus of closer to $3 million. The signing deadline for MLB draft picks is 5 p.m. today.
A redshirt sophomore who underwent Tommy John surgery in 2016, McClanahan once was widely deemed a top-10 overall pick, but struggled with his command in American Athletic Conference and postseason play this past season. When sharp, his upper-90s fastball is complemented by a change-up with a dastardly drop.
Related: Despite shaky year, USF's Shane McClanahan still a 1st-round pick
He finished the '18 season with a 5-6 record and 3.42 ERA, striking out 120 and walking 48 in 76 1/3 innings, but lasted five or fewer innings in five of 14 starts.
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