Contributed Photo: Former Laker Jamie Walczak, shown pitching for the Pensacola Blue Wahoos at the AA level.Former Mercyhurst student Jamie Walczak, a member of the Cincinnati Reds organization, has been selected to play in the Arizona Fall League for the Glendale Desert Dogs in the fall 2013 season.
Walczak played mostly outfield during his time at Mercyhurst University from 2006-2009. He was a standout of player, and only continues to progress.
During his time here, he had 76 hits during his senior season in 2009, and currently is tied with Zak Blair and Shane Latshaw for the program’s all-time record. He did not pitch until his senior season and served as the Lakers’ closer that year.
In 17 appearances out of the bullpen, Walczak went 4-3 with five saves as well.
He started the season with Cincinnati’s Single-A affiliate and then moved to the Bakersfield Blaze of the California League.
The former Laker, standing at 6 feet, 2 inches tall, has been making his way through the minor leagues each year since he has been signed.
Since appearing in Double-A for the Pensacola Blue Wahoos of the Southern League the former Laker has pitched in 22 games.
Walczak was drafted by the Cincinnati Reds in the 15th round during the 2009 Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft.
He now plays at the double-A level after starting his professional career with Billings of the Pioneer League right after signing with the organization.
Walczak is one of three former Lakers currently affiliated with Major League organizations. The other two are David Lough who is an outfielder for the Kansas City Royals and Zak Blair plays for the Arizona League Cubs at the rookie level.
The Arizona Fall League’s first game of the season is scheduled to take place on Oct 8.
The Desert Dog’s roster holds these minor league teams: Chicago White Sox, Cincinnati Reds, Los Angeles Dodgers, Miami Marlins and Minnesota Twins.
Also, there are six teams in the Arizona Fall League: the Scottsdale Scorpions, Mesa Solar Sox, Salt City Rafters, Phoenix Desert Dogs, Peoria Javelinas and Surprise Saguaros.
