North grad Jimenez going pro

Danny Jimenez, a 2008 St. Charles North graduated, has signed a pro contract with the Cleveland Indians, Jimenez confirmed on Thursday.

A left-handed pitcher, Jimenez said he agreed to a $125,000 signing bonus, a solid deal considering Jimenez was picked in the 23rd round of the First-Year Player Draft earlier this month.

Jimenez, 19, has reported to Goodyear, Ariz., for rookie ball.

"It's pretty much the same routine," Jimenez said. "It's just baseball. It's pretty much the same things you've got to do everywhere else but just a little more in-depth."

Jimenez was drafted out of high school by the St. Louis Cardinals but elected instead to go to college for a year at John A. Logan. Agent Barry Meister assisted Jimenez with negotiations this time.

Jimenez said he is one of the youngest prospects at rookie league. He is hopeful of being assigned to a minor league team later in the summer.

Jimenez went 6-2 at John A. Logan this spring, compiling a 2.01 ERA while striking out 94 batters in 891⁄3 innings.