From STAFF REPORTS

Former Lee County and Florida State University baseball star Buster Posey waited until almost the last possible moment to officially end his college playing days and launch his professional career.

With a midnight Friday deadline almost at hand to either sign with the San Francisco Giants or return to FSU for his senior year, Posey accepted a deal that includes a record Major League Baseball signing bonus of $6.2 million.

The contract was not a major league deal, however, so Posey, who after starring as a shortstop and pitcher for Lee County was converted to catcher at FSU, won’t be immediately placed on the team’s 40-man roster.

Picked fifth overall by the Giants in the June 5 draft, Posey ended his college baseball days by winning practically every major laurel given at that level after hitting .463 with 26 homers and 93 RBIs.

His list of honors include the National Collegiate Player of the year, NCAA Academic Player of the Year, the Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year and the Golden Spikes, Johnny Bench, Dick Howser and Brooks Wallace awards.

Posey is the grandson of Neal Posey and the late Demp Posey Sr. of Cordele. His parents are Demp Posey Jr., who graduated from Crisp Academy, and Traci Posey.