According to ESPN.com Insider Keith Law, the former Bethel High and UConn ace got $1.5 million richer as Red Sox Nation slept Monday night, his bonus for reaching an accord with Boston before Major League Baseball's midnight deadline for signing prospects taken in June's First Year Player Draft.
Barnes' first professional contract was among several Red Sox deals inked in the wee hours.
Barnes, who some experts projected to be taken within the top 10 picks after a breakout campaign with the Huskies this past spring, landed with Boston at No. 19 overall. The Bethel High product went 11-3 with a 1.11 ERA and 97 strikeouts in 105 regular season innings to earn the 2011 Big East Pitcher of the Year award.
Just last week, Barnes was in his hometown to address 9-year-old Cal Ripken Leaguers from throughout New England at a banquet kicking off the regional tournament. He said he has spent the summer at home, awaiting word on his first professional assignment. Barnes could not be reached for comment Tuesday.
From his Facebook account Barnes posted "officially part of the nation. thanks for 3 great years UConn."
UConn coach Jim Penders sent Barnes a good luck text Monday. He spoke to The News-Times by phone Tuesday.
"I just told Matt that I hope it all goes well," Penders said. "(Getting the contract finalized) can be kind of tense, even when both parties want to make it happen. It can come down to the wire. I'm just very happy for Matt that he gets to be a Boston Red Sox."
Barnes was one of seven Huskies selected in this year's Draft. New Britain-born centerfielder and Team USA teammate George Springer was selected by Houston with the 11th overall pick, and shortstop Nick Ahmed was the Atlanta Braves' second round pick.
Penders, who has ushered in one of the defining eras in UConn baseball, culminating in a berth in the NCAA Super Regionals in 2011, imparts a similar message when his players turn professional.
"For a lot of guys, it's a chance to exhale," Penders said. "They think, `I finally did it.' But there's a lot of hard work ahead. For Matt and (George), they're both ready to begin that journey. They're employees now. I know they'll be in Houston and in Fenway Park someday soon."
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