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Another Hoosier is heading to the pros. On Friday Big Ten Pitcher of the Year Andrew Saalfrank shared that he has signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks after the club picked him in the sixth round of this year’s MLB Draft.
Dreams have become reality. Beyond grateful to my support system that has helped me get to this point in life and also a big thanks to IU and everyone affiliated with the university. I wouldn’t be the man I am today without attending that school and meeting so many great people⚾️ pic.twitter.com/tmQnGsPuDc
— Andrew Saalfrank (@Ballfrank_23) June 14, 2019
Saalfrank was one of two remaining underclassmen that had yet to announce their decision on whether to turn pro or stay in Bloomington. Now slugger Elijah Dunham is the only one left. Saalfrank is also the third member of IU’s three-man starting rotation to sign a professional deal, following Pauly Milto and Tanner Gordon. He is also the fifth Hoosier to forego any remaining college eligibility and turn pro. 10 Hoosiers total have now moved on from the program to become pros, 10 total Hoosiers were drafted this year—a program record.
To begin his pro career the left-hander will likely be assigned to a lower level affiliate of the D-Backs organization like the short-season A Hillsboro Hops, the rookie-level Missoula Osprey or the Arizona League Diamondbacks.