Cardinals Announce Signing of Second-Rounder Tink Hence

photo: the Hence family (Tink Hence)

The St. Louis Cardinals made it three days in a row, signing top picks from the draft Class of 2020 as well as fresh from their respective high school graduation classes.

On Thursday afternoon, the club announced the signing of second-round draft pick Tink Hence, taken 63rd overall. The 17-year old right-handed pitcher hails from Pine Bluff, Arkansas. The University of Arkansas commit is the sixth of seven selections to come to terms with St. Louis.

Hence’s 63rd overall spot is a Competitive Balance Selection acquired from Tampa Bay in a trade that also included prospect pitcher Matthew Liberatore joining the Cardinals. Heading to the Rays were the 37th overall selection along with outfielders Jose Martinez and Randy Arozarena.

Hence’s signing bonus has not been disclosed but this article will be updated once that information is disclosed. The slot amount for the 63rd overall pick is $1,076,300.

Tink Hence

Coming into the day, the two remaining St. Louis draft picks to be signed were Hence and fourth-round selection Ian Bedell. Both are overslot candidates and are expected to sign. Including a potential five percent overage on their total signing budget, the Cardinals had about $375,000 extra to work with to complete contracts with their full draft class.

In addition, the Cardinals signed eight non-drafted free agents so have 14 of their 15 newest additions on board. Bedell is expected to follow soon.

Update from Friday morning, June 26

Related articles

To learn about Hence’s skills and background:

St. Louis Cardinals Pick Six to Conclude 2020 Draft

For details on Hence’s background and journey to date:

Pitcher Tink Hence – “The Quiet Assassin”

For details on Hence’s no. 19 placement on The Cardinal Nation’s Top 50 Prospect List:

Post-Draft St. Louis Cardinals 2020 Top 50 Prospect Rankings


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