Wed Jul 2 15:51:13 2008

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A's ink top prospect Inoa with record signing bonus

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Oakland, CA (Sports Network) - The Oakland Athletics signed 16-year-old pitcher Michael Inoa of the Dominican Republic to a minor league contract Wednesday with a $4.25 million signing bonus, a team record for an amateur player.

The 6-foot-7, 205 pound right-hander, whose fastball has already been clocked in the mid-90s, is scheduled to play in the Dominican Summer League.

"Michael has a chance to be a very special pitcher in the Major Leagues," Athletics' Vice President and General Manager Billy Beane said. "Even at this early age, he is a very polished pitcher with three above-average pitches and a fluid delivery. We are very excited about this young man's potential and look forward to watching his growth, both personally and professionally, in the years to come."