Sam Stafford, 13th rd

13th round pick Sam Stafford was a 2nd rd pick of the NYY last year but had any contract nixed due to concerns about his shoulder. In the end, surgery ended his 2012 season, and Jason Cole confirms that he will sign with Texas and finish his rehab with the team. Possible steal if his shoulder injury isn't of the Eric Hurely variety (labrum and cuff). Here is BA's 2011 profile of the kid:

Lefthander Sam Stafford hasn't been able to nail down a spot in Texas' weekend rotation, though not because he lacks stuff. The 6-foot-4, 190-pounder hit 96 mph while winning pitcher-of-the-year honors in the California Collegiate League last summer, but he has to dial his fastball down to 90-91 mph to try to find the strike zone. He has good shape to his curveball and doesn't always locate that pitch where he wants, either. Stafford can be unhittable at times. If he can't improve his command he'll be ticketed for the bullpen as a pro.

Update:

Surgery for a small tear (labrum?) on 2/20/12; 5-7 months of rehab - possible instructs ETA? Fagg noted that the club expects a "full recovery" (as much as that is possible I guess).

Update:

In an interview with Jason Cole, Stafford notes that his labrum surgery with the Rangers' team doctor included a second procedure for TOS. He confirms that he will start his throwing program in August.

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