Kline: Two of Nats' top four picks already agreed to terms, Rizzo will work on Giolito deal

Nationals director of scouting Kris Kline met with reporters via conference call Thursday to discuss the draft, which wrapped up earlier in the week. The Nationals selected right-handed pitcher Lucas Giolito, out of Harvard-Westlake High School in Calif., at No. 16. The 6-foot-6, 230 lb., hurler has an explosive fastball and a power curve. Kline said general manager Mike Rizzo will handle negotiations with Giolito's representatives in hopes of getting him signed before the July 13 deadline at 5 p.m. ET. Kline confirmed that round two selection (80th overall), second baseman Tony Renda out of Cal-Berkeley had agreed to terms on a contract and will report to short-season Auburn Doubledays. Round four selection (144th overall) Brandon Miller is also "believed to have agreed to terms," according to Kline. Kline said assistant general manager Roy Clark will work the negotiations for Clemson catcher Spencer Kieboom, the No. 174 selection for the Nationals in the fifth round. Kline said the draft was "a very exciting three days. To be able to get guys we got up top was great. The pitchers are big bodies and have better velocity. I asked all of our cross checkers and area scouts this year to identify their gut-feel guys and guys that were big leaguers in their minds. We hope for the best and see how it plays out."



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