TicketsJune 29, 2006
CINCINNATI, Ohio---Former University of Cincinnati two-way baseball player Jack Nelson has signed as an undrafted free agent with the Houston Astros and will lauch a professional career beginning immediately. Nelson will report to the Astros' Appalachian League rookie team in Greeneville, Tenn.
Nelson (Wheaton, Ill./Wheaton-Warrenville South), who contributed during his career both at the plate and on the mound, will be a pitcher in the minors. He signed with the Astros today and will be added to the Greeneville roster immediately.
During his senior season at Cincinnati, Nelson appeared in 24 games out of the Bearcat bullpen, registering a 4-1 record, four saves and a 4.76 ERA. In 34 innings of work, Nelson struck out 35 hitters. At the plate, Nelson was UC's starting designated hitter in 52 games, batting .306 with 16 doubles, five home runs and 47 RBI. In addition to his success on the field, Nelson also earned a spot on the ESPN The Magazine Academic All-American third team and graduated earlier this month with a degree in finance.
Nelson becomes the second member of the Bearcats' Class of 2006 to begin a professional career this year. He joins Logan Parker, who was drafted in the 12th round by the Cincinnati Reds and is playing for the Billings Mustangs. Other former Bearcats currently in the minors include Mark Haske (West Michigan Whitecaps) and Steve Pickerell (Princeton Devil Rays).