SHS Star Sal Romano Inks With Cincinnati

It came down to the final week for Major League Baseball teams to sign their 2011 draft picks and, with just a few days left, Southington’s Sal Romano had a tough decision to make – move on to the University of Tennessee, or sign with the Cincinnati Reds.

With time running out, the right-handed pitcher and the Reds organization came to an agreement on a six-figure deal that is typically reserved for high draft picks, the Hartford Courant reported.

Romano, a power throwing, right-handed pitcher, was drafted by the Reds in the 23rd round of MLB’s amateur draft on June 7. He had previously committed to the University of Tennessee before inking with the Reds Saturday, two days before the deadline to sign draft picks.

“Tomorrow, I officially become a Cincinnati Red. Thanks, everybody for the support,” Romano posted on his Facebook page Friday.

The 6-foot, 4-inch righty garnered a lot of attention with his strong senior year at , where he led the Blue Knights to the Class LL state championship game. He compiled a 10-2 record with a 0.35 ERA.

Romano hasn’t just excelled on the field, however. The baseball star maintained an A- average through his high school career, according to staff at Southington High School, and has volunteered in programs throughout the area.

He was an academic mentor to elementary school children and worked with the Mill Foundation for Kids, an organization that benefits children suffering from pediatric illnesses.

Romano, who was taking summer classes at the University of Tennessee, will join the Reds farm team next week.