High Rangers draft pick signed, assigned to Spokane

ARLINGTON, Texas — The Texas Rangers have signed their top two draft picks, left-handed pitcher Kevin Matthews and outfield Zach Cone. Matthews, who was selected 33rd overall from Richmond Hill (Ga.) High, was assigned to the rookie-level Arizona Rangers in the Arizona League. The 18-year-old went 4-2 with a 1.68 ERA in 10 games for Richmond Hill as a senior this spring. The 6-foot, 180 pound lefty struck out 94 and walked 14 over 42 innings. Cone, who was taken 36th from the University of Georgia, was assigned to Spokane in the Northwest League, a short-season Class A. He batted .317 with 18 home runs, 28 doubles, 11 triples and 106 RBIs over three years for the Bulldogs. Texas has signed 21 of its 2011 picks.