Seals Send Bibens-Dirkx to Cubs
Published on July 3, 2009 under Golden Baseball League (GBL)
Victoria Seals News Release
Victoria, BC - The Victoria Seals are proud to announce that they have sold the contract of right handed pitcher Austin Bibens-Dirkx to the Chicago Cubs. This marks the first time Victoria has sent a player to an affiliated deal, just over a month into the club's inaugural season.
Bibens-Dirkx, the native of Salem, Oregon, has appeared in eight games for the Seals this year, and currently leads the Golden Baseball League with 54 strikeouts in just 202 batters faced. After surrendering just one run in eight innings and garnering a no decision on Canada Day, Bibens-Dirkx collected a 2-2 record, allowing just 20 runs in 48.2 innings for a 3.70 ERA, placing him ninth in the league.
"This is a very exciting day for our organization, and obviously for Austin," said Seals President Darren Parker. "That's what I love about this league and this level of baseball, it gives these players these another opportunity to realize their dream, and that's what we're all here for."
Prior to joining the Seals, Bibens-Dirkx spent three seasons in the Seattle Mariners' system after being selected in the 16th Round (471st overall) of 2006 amateur entry draft. Expected to start in Peoria, Illinois with the Peoria Chiefs, Bibens-Dirkx will return to the Mid-West league after appearing in 25 games with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers in 2006.
Bibens-Dirkx becomes the 11th Golden Baseball League player sold to a Major League Baseball organization in 2009, and the first-ever to sign with the Chicago Cubs. The signing marks the 97th time a Golden Baseball League player has advanced to an affiliated contract since the league's inception in 2005.
With an open spot on the roster, the Victoria Seals also welcome pitcher Ezequiel Ruvalcaba back to the lineup. The native of Jalisco, Mexico went to the mound for the Seals in 10 contests earlier this season, collecting a 12.60 ERA in the process.
The Seals wrap up a four game series against the Toros tonight when the two teams meet for game number four at Royal Athletic Park. Game time is 7:05 p.m. (PT), and the contest will also be streamed live on www.victoriaseals.ca. Get your tickets online now at www.selectyourtickets.com, or by phone at (250) 220-7777.
Golden Baseball League Stories from July 3, 2009
- Seals Send Bibens-Dirkx to Cubs - Victoria Seals
- Edmonton Capitals Dominate GBL All-Star Selections - Edmonton Capitals
- Seven Snakes Headed to All-Star Game - Calgary Vipers
- Special On Field Seating Available for Tonights Game - Chico Outlaws
- Seals Blast, Then Squeak By Toros - Victoria Seals
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
