Brenden Webb's summer took an unexpected turn over the weekend when he signed a professional contract with the Baltimore Orioles, he confirmed Monday.

A 30th-round draft pick of the Orioles in June after a fine freshman season at Palomar College, Webb was set to play next season at USC.

"But the Orioles came in and made me an offer I couldn't refuse," said Webb, at Mt. Carmel High graduate who was playing in the Northwoods League this summer.

"I had been in contact with the Orioles, but was committed to USC. Pro ball was an option, but I didn't think it was going to happen."

Baseball sources say the deal Webb signed Sunday is worth about $250,000.

A center fielder, Webb hit .342 with eight homers and 40 RBIs for Palomar in 2009. He was hitting .216 this summer with a team-high 12 doubles.

He'll report to Baltimore's club in the Gulf Coast League on Tuesday.

"Out of high school, my choices were Palomar or a small Division III school in Oregon," Webb said. "I certainly made the right choice.

"I worked hard to improve my game, and I was blessed with a good season. My prayers were answered.

"Now I get to do what every kid who plays the game dreams of, get a chance to play in the major leagues."

12th Comet commits

Outfielder Reece Alnas became the 12th member of the 2009 Palomar baseball team to commit to a four-year school, committing to NAIA power Oklahoma Baptist.

A sophomore from Hawaii, Alnas hit .301 for the Comets.

Two Comets commit

Palomar College quarterback Joey Erickson (Mission Hills) and running back Marquis Leauma (Vista) have committed to play football this fall for Tabor College in Kansas.

Contact staff writer John Maffei at 760-740-3547 or jmaffei@nctimes.com.