Photo Credit: Clemson Athletic Communications
The Chicago Cubs announced today they signed left-handed pitcher Casey Harman to a minor league deal. Harman was selected in the 29th round of the 2010 Amateur draft out of Clemson University. He still had one year of eligibility left at Clemson.
In the spring, Harman helped the Clemson Tigers to a surprising run in the College World Series. Clemson finished in 3rd place. He finished with a 3.79 ERA and 105 strikeouts in 121 innings this year. Casey Harman attended South Burlington High School.
While being drafted in the 29th round may seem low, a few starting pitchers have had success in the last couple decades being drafted 29th round or lower:
Chad Gaudin – 34th round, 2001, Rays
Jason Frasor – 33rd round, 1999, Tigers
Mark Buehrle – 38th round, 1998, White Sox
Kyle Lohse – 29th round, 1996, Cubs
Harman will head to Arizona this fall to take part in Cubs instructional training.