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IronManRipken · 08-18-2007, 08:53 AM

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Wieters, the Orioles' first-round pick and the fifth overall pick in the 2007 First-Year Player Draft, signed a Minor League contract just minutes before the 11:59 p.m. ET deadline on Wednesday night and spoke to the media Thursday for the first time since officially joining the Baltimore organization.

He said after the sweaty palms and last-minute decisions, it's nice to know that he can get started with his career as a baseball player.

"Ultimately, you have to make the decision for yourself," said Wieters, who admitted he's not a very outspoken individual. "When it comes down to going back to school or playing for Baltimore, ultimately it comes down to what's best in your heart. Now that this is all over, I'm just looking forward to getting out there and playing."

A switch-hitting catcher out of Georgia Tech, Wieters was thought to be one of the best position players in the Draft. Nevertheless, there was much speculation that he and the Orioles' front office wouldn't reach an agreement, and he said he planned to return to school to complete his senior year if the negotiations failed.

Angelos surprised me when I heard that the O's are getting new talent. He actually forked over the dough for players to help the team. Maybe he is going through a revolution or something, but I hope he keeps it up!