Outfielder Brian Fletcher signed a contract with the Kansas City Royals, two weeks before the deadline, ending his Auburn career.

Fletcher, an 18th round pick the Royals, weighed his options after going lower in the draft than he thought he would.

The 21-year-old batted .357 with 22 home runs and 75 RBIs for Auburn this year, earning All-SEC honors.

He and catcher Ryan Jenkins both have signed with the Royals. Fletcher expects to be assigned to Low-A Burlington, where Jenkins has been playing.

Auburn had 11 players drafted in June. Of the nine that had eligibility remaining, six signed pro contracts. DH Kevin Patterson, RHP Bradley Hendrix and OF Justin Fradejas opted to return for their senior season.