The Marlins have signed No. 18 overall pick Chad James for $1.7 million. The 18th first-rounder to sign, James exceeded MLB’s slot recommendation of $1,422,000 as well as its 2008 guideline of $1,580,000.

A lefthander from Yukon (Okla.) High, James is a 6-foot-4, 205-pounder who sat in the low 90s and touched 95 mph with his fastball this spring. His curveball also shows the makings of becoming a plus pitch, and he also has an advanced changeup. He had committed to Oklahoma State.