Arkansas Baseball: Matt Reynolds Signs Major League Deal

Jun 22, 2012; Omaha, NE, USA; Arkansas Razorbacks third baseman Matt Reynolds (5) steals second base ahead of the tag by South Carolina Gamecoks short stop Joey Pankake (9) during the first inning during game thirteen of the 2012 College World Series at TD Ameritrade Park. Mandatory Credit: Matt Ryerson-US PRESSWIRE

Fayetteville, Ark. – University of Arkansas Razorback junior third baseman Matt Reynolds bypassed his final year of college eligibility when he signed with the New York Mets on Monday.

Reynolds was a second round pick of the New York Mets and the No. 71 overall pick in the 2012 draft. The third team All-American’s slot value per the new MLB bargaining agreement is a contract to be valued in the neighborhood of $723,600.

The Mets signed their first round draft pick short stop Gavin Cecchini (Lake Charles, LA) on June 8. Cecchini reported to Port St. Lucie, Florida for mini-camp before joining the Mets’ Kingport Rookie League team.

Reynolds, a 2012 All-SEC pick, is expected to begin his pro career as a shortstop in the Mets farm system. He is expected to begin his minor league career when he reports to the Savannah Sand Gnats on Thursday; the Gnat’s are A-ball classification.

The former Razorback gave one last goodbye to his teammates and Razorback Nation on Twitter:

Matthew W. Reynolds ‏@ReyRey_5

Officially a NY Met!! Thank you Arkansas for giving me the best 3 years of my life! #HogForLife