Via MLBTR, the Royals are close to reaching a deal with Miami catcher Yasmani Grandal, who they would take with the 4th overall pick when the draft begins on Monday. Pre-draft deals are against the rules on many levels, which is why nothing will be officially announced by the team or even confirmed by the media. Given the NCAA’s recent track record of screwing over its athletes, I wouldn’t put ruling Grandal ineligible for the postseason past them. It’s unlikely though.
Coincidentally, the Pirates reached a pre-draft deal with Boston College catcher Tony Sanchez last year before making him the 4th overall pick. Unlike Sanchez, Grandal is a legitimate top-half of the first round talent, even though 4th overall is a bit of a reach. He wasn’t connected to the Yankees in any way, but the pieces are starting to fit in the puzzle.