FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas' top-rated baseball signee is foregoing his eligibility with the Razorbacks to play professional baseball.
Josh Breaux, a pitcher and catcher from McLennan Community College in Waco, Texas, signed Tuesday with the New York Yankees, according to MLB.com's Jim Callis. Breaux, who was taken with the 61st overall pick in the second round last Monday, reportedly signed for $1.5 million, 38 percent more than the suggested value for his position in the draft.
Arkansas coach Dave Van Horn said last Wednesday that he expected Breaux to sign more than slot value.
Breaux batted .404 with 18 home runs and 69 RBI as a sophomore at McLennan As a freshman he batted .401 with 19 home runs and 82 RBI, and was an offensive star at the JUCO World Series in Grand Junction, Colo. He has reached 99 mph on the mound.
The 6-2, 215-pounder was rated the No. 1 junior college prospect in the country by Perfect Game. He was a 36th-round selection of the Houston Astros last season.
Breaux was one of two Arkansas signees drafted last week. Wade Beasley, a right-handed pitcher from Horatio, was taken in the 24th round by the Milwaukee Brewers. It is unclear whether he will sign or play for the Razorbacks.