Aug. 15, 2007

NEW YORK (AP) -The Yankees and first-round draft pick Andrew Brackman agreed to a $4.55 million, four-year contract Wednesday about an hour before the midnight deadline.

Brackman, a right-hander selected 30th overall out of North Carolina State, might not begin his pro career for a while. The pitcher is expected to have elbow ligament replacement surgery within the next few weeks.

The Yankees didn't address whether Brackman will need surgery. He was assigned to Class-A Tampa.

Brackman's contract includes a $3.35 million signing bonus payable over six years. New York holds options for 2011, 2012 and 2013 - and the agreement contains roster and performance bonuses. The deal could max out at about $13 million over seven years.

To make room for Brackman on the 40-man roster, New York designated minor league infielder Chris Basak for assignment.

Under a new baseball rule this year, teams had until midnight EDT on Wednesday to reach agreements with their 2007 draft picks. After that, they are not eligible to sign - and many unsigned players could go back into next year's draft pool.