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Cubs Pick Outfielder Albert Almora In First Round

CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago Cubs have selected Albert Almora, an 18-year-old outfielder from Mater Academy Charter in Hialeah Gardens, Fla., with the sixth pick in the draft.

The 6-foot-2, 180-pound Almora batted .603 with six home runs and 34 RBI in 25 games for Mater Academy last season.

Almora has played on six USA national teams, five of which have earned gold medals. He earlier committed to the University of Miami.

Almora was recommended by area scout John Koronka.

"We scouted Albert extensively throughout his career and he fit the criteria we were looking for," Jason McLeod, Cubs Vice President of Scouting and Player Development, said in a written release.  "He has multiple tools across the board, and an incredible work ethic. We are looking forward to seeing him start his career."

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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