The Padres have agreed to terms with Northeast Texas CC righthander Zach Cates for $765,000, the largest bonus paid out in the third round so far this year. It's also more than double MLB's recommendation of $380,700 for his No. 91 draft slot.

Cates spent most of his 2009 freshman season as a catcher and pitched just seven innings before blossoming on the mound as a sophomore. His fastball ranged from 90-93 to 95-97 mph, and he also showed a relatively advanced changeup. His curveball flashes some promise as well. He would have transferred to Oklahoma State had he not turned pro.