Former Diamondback and Padre Become Pelicans

Published on April 11, 2006 under American Association (AA)
Pensacola Pelicans News Release


Today the Pelicans announce the signing of right-handed pitchers Clark Girardeau and Sam Smith.

Girardeau, originally drafted in the seventh round of the 2003 draft by the San Diego Padres, has spent the past three seasons pitching in the Padres minor league system and has racked up an astonishing 236 strikeouts in 71 appearances.

Sam Smith, drafted in the 19th round of the 2002 draft by the Arizona Diamondbacks, had a dominate year in 2003 pitching with South Bend of the Midwest League. He led the league in wins (16) and shutouts (3), he was 4th in innings pitched (167) and in complete games (4).

Both Girardeau and Smith, teammates at the University of South Alabama, moved up through the minor leagues quickly, a rare feat for most young pitchers. The former teammates now find themselves reunited in Pensacola, getting a second chance at stardom with the Pelicans.

"I am happy for these guys, they are both outstanding pitchers," said University of South Alabama Head Baseball Coach Steve Kittrell. "Clark's got a good power slider and Sam has great control, can pitch inside and outside and hit his spots."

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