McKinney inks contract with the Astros

FAYETTEVILLE – Arkansas junior outfielder Jarrod McKinney has signed a professional contract with the Houston Astros, ending his collegiate career with the Razorbacks after three seasons.

McKinney was drafted by the Astros in the 31st round (940th overall pick) and was one of six current Razorbacks to be taken in the 2011 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft. McKinney was scheduled to report to Houston’s spring training facility in Kissimmee, Fla., on Saturday.

A three-year letterwinner from Hughes Spring, Texas, McKinney played in 109 games as a Razorback, with 83 starts. McKinney posted a .255 career batting average with three homers and 30 RBI. The outfielder posted his best numbers during the 2011 season, finishing the season with a .301 batting average with two round-trippers and 20 RBI. McKinney also stole eight bases in 10 attempts. In Southeastern Conference play, McKinney batted .304 with a home run and nine RBI. McKinney finished the year strong, being named to the Tempe All-Regional team, after hitting .533 (8-for-15) with two RBI, three doubles, a triple and three runs scored in the four regional games.