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amead17 · 10-20-2025, 11:42 AM

BIG BONUSES AND BOLD DECISIONS MARK END OF DRAFT SIGNING PERIOD

By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times
Additional Reporting by Arthur H. Leland, Sporting Times
February 15, 1907

The ink is now dry on most of the contracts for the 1906 draft class, as yesterday marked the final deadline for drafted players to sign with their respective clubs. While the majority of signings went smoothly, two players opted not to sign and will instead take their chances in next year’s draft.

For those who did commit, the financial rewards were impressive — and perhaps unprecedented. Heinie Zimmerman, the promising 19-year-old infielder selected by the Philadelphia Phillies, emerged with the largest signing bonus of all, securing a handsome $1,760 to begin his professional career. Zimmerman’s deal capped what has been a record-setting year for rookie contracts, as the top prospects continue to command higher sums with each passing season.

“I’m proud of what I was able to agree upon,” Zimmerman said after the announcement. “It shows the Phillies believe in me, and I aim to prove them right the moment I step on the diamond.”

Zimmerman was one of seven players to secure bonuses exceeding $1,000, a clear sign that clubs are willing to pay dearly for potential stars. Among them were several of the most heralded names from December’s draft.

Tris Speaker, the Cleveland Naps’ first overall selection and a mere 18 years old, earned a $1,620 signing bonus. The young outfielder is seen as a long-term investment, expected to develop into an everyday starter in the coming years. “It’s a dream to sign my first professional contract,” Speaker remarked. “I know there’s much to learn, but I’m ready to work and make the most of this opportunity with Cleveland.”

Walter Johnson, the Brooklyn Superbas’ prized 19-year-old pitcher and the top arm in the class, wasn’t far behind. He received a $1,670 bonus — a figure befitting the expectations placed upon his powerful right arm. “It’s an honor to join the Superbas,” said Johnson. “Now it’s time to earn every bit of what they’ve given me and show that I can pitch at this level.”

The other high earners were Heinie Berger ($1,030), Ed Konetchy ($1,130), Fred Merkle ($1,560), and Larry Doyle ($1,130) — all of whom are expected to feature prominently for their clubs in the coming years.

However, not everyone chose to take the professional route. Two players — Bill Bailey, the Boston Americans’ second-round pick, and Kid Butler, the St. Louis Cardinals’ sixth-round selection — declined to sign contracts. Both will instead attend college for the coming year and re-enter the draft in 1908.

With contracts settled and bonus money distributed, the business of baseball now turns to the field. The newly signed youngsters will soon report to their respective clubs for training, where the hard work of justifying those lofty bonuses truly begins.

10-20-2025, 11:42 AM	#251
amead17 Hall Of Famer Join Date: Dec 2013 Posts: 9,255	Draft Signing Deadline BIG BONUSES AND BOLD DECISIONS MARK END OF DRAFT SIGNING PERIOD By Samuel T. Kingsley, Sporting Times Additional Reporting by Arthur H. Leland, Sporting Times February 15, 1907 The ink is now dry on most of the contracts for the 1906 draft class, as yesterday marked the final deadline for drafted players to sign with their respective clubs. While the majority of signings went smoothly, two players opted not to sign and will instead take their chances in next year’s draft. For those who did commit, the financial rewards were impressive — and perhaps unprecedented. Heinie Zimmerman, the promising 19-year-old infielder selected by the Philadelphia Phillies, emerged with the largest signing bonus of all, securing a handsome $1,760 to begin his professional career. Zimmerman’s deal capped what has been a record-setting year for rookie contracts, as the top prospects continue to command higher sums with each passing season. “I’m proud of what I was able to agree upon,” Zimmerman said after the announcement. “It shows the Phillies believe in me, and I aim to prove them right the moment I step on the diamond.” Zimmerman was one of seven players to secure bonuses exceeding $1,000, a clear sign that clubs are willing to pay dearly for potential stars. Among them were several of the most heralded names from December’s draft. Tris Speaker, the Cleveland Naps’ first overall selection and a mere 18 years old, earned a $1,620 signing bonus. The young outfielder is seen as a long-term investment, expected to develop into an everyday starter in the coming years. “It’s a dream to sign my first professional contract,” Speaker remarked. “I know there’s much to learn, but I’m ready to work and make the most of this opportunity with Cleveland.” Walter Johnson, the Brooklyn Superbas’ prized 19-year-old pitcher and the top arm in the class, wasn’t far behind. He received a $1,670 bonus — a figure befitting the expectations placed upon his powerful right arm. “It’s an honor to join the Superbas,” said Johnson. “Now it’s time to earn every bit of what they’ve given me and show that I can pitch at this level.” The other high earners were Heinie Berger ($1,030), Ed Konetchy ($1,130), Fred Merkle ($1,560), and Larry Doyle ($1,130) — all of whom are expected to feature prominently for their clubs in the coming years. However, not everyone chose to take the professional route. Two players — Bill Bailey, the Boston Americans’ second-round pick, and Kid Butler, the St. Louis Cardinals’ sixth-round selection — declined to sign contracts. Both will instead attend college for the coming year and re-enter the draft in 1908. With contracts settled and bonus money distributed, the business of baseball now turns to the field. The newly signed youngsters will soon report to their respective clubs for training, where the hard work of justifying those lofty bonuses truly begins.