Jensen Hirschkorn Signs $4M Record Deal With Braves

Historic Signing Bonus

Kingsburg High pitcher Jensen Hirschkorn has agreed to a $4 million signing bonus with the Atlanta Braves, the highest amount for a draftee after the second round. The deal eclipses the previous mark set in 2022 by the Texas Rangers, who paid $3.7 million to fourth‑round pick Brock Porter. MLB.com’s Jim Callis reported the figure, calling it a milestone for high‑school pitching prospects.

Hirschkorn, a senior at Kingsburg High, was selected 84th overall in the third round of the amateur draft. His draft slot had a $973,000 value, making the Braves’ investment well above the expected cost. The signing bonus not only breaks a recent record but also signals the Braves’ aggressive approach to building pitching depth.

The Falcons have received praise for securing elite talent early, especially as they look to bolster their minor‑league system. The $4 million figure will likely influence future negotiations for similar high‑school arms entering the draft.

Drafting and College Departure

Hirschkorn was announced as the 84th overall pick on Saturday, drawing attention for his fastball velocity and command. He had previously committed to continue his college career at LSU, where he was set to join the Vikings’ baseball program next season. The Braves confirmed that Hirschkorn is forgoing his NCAA eligibility to enter their affiliate structure.

Forcing the decision to leave college early is rare for top‑round prospects, and it underscores the Braves’ confidence in his professional upside. The move also means the Braves will have a key player in their development pipeline from the start of the minor‑league season.

This shift could prompt other schools to reassess how they handle standout high‑school prospects who receive comparable offers. It also highlights a growing trend where elite pitchers opt for immediate professional contracts over collegiate development.