THE SIDELINES : Prep Pitcher Signs With Houston

Three weeks after leading his team to its first-ever state title, pitcher Jeff Juden has signed with the Houston Astros.

Juden, the 6-foot, 7-inch right-hander who helped Salem High School to the Massachusetts Division II championship, decided to turn professional rather than play baseball for the University of Miami in Florida. Juden was the Astros’ first-round draft pick and the 12th player selected overall.