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Goddard star takes pros over Shockers
BY PAUL SUELLENTROP
The Wichita Eagle
Bob Boone didn't bring his seven Gold Gloves to the Norris family basement last week, but their presence mattered.
Boone, assistant general manager for the Washington Nationals, visited with catcher Derek Norris last week to convince him to sign and start his professional career. Norris, a fourth-round draft pick, signed Friday and leaves Wednesday for Rookie League Gulf Coast Nationals, who play in Melbourne, Fla.
"That really influenced me a lot," Norris said. "I feel pretty fortunate. Ever since I was a little kid, I wanted to play."
Norris, from Goddard, is the second member of Wichita State's recruiting class to turn down college. Infielder Jon Gilmore signed with Atlanta.
Infielder Pete Kozma, a first-round pick by St. Louis, remains unsigned.
Norris declined to be specific about his signing bonus. Earlier in the process, he said he wanted a bonus closer to a second-round pick.
"I got what I think I need," he said.
He also got advice from Boone, who managed Kansas City and Cincinnati and played 19 seasons in the major leagues. He talked to Norris about improving his flexibility to become a better defensive catcher. It was hard for Norris to say no to someone with Boone's credentials.
"I decided I should start my dream now instead of in three years," Norris said.
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