Hard-Throwing Campbell Returns to Wingnuts
March 28, 2018 - American Association (AA)
Wichita Wingnuts News Release
WICHITA, Kans. - The Wichita Wingnuts secured the return of one of the most valuable bullpen pieces from last season, announcing on Wednesday that James Campbell has signed for 2018.
Campbell served as the Wingnuts primary eighth inning setup man in 2017, an integral component of a bullpen that combined to notch a solid 2.99 ERA. The 26-year old appeared in 34 games, totaling 34.0 innings of work, and posted a 3-1 record with a 2.91 ERA. With a fastball that regularly clocked in the mid-90s, Campbell struck out 23 batters while only walking seven, surrendering 40 hits. The righty also worked two scoreless outings in the Championship Series against the Winnipeg Goldeyes.
"I'm excited to have James back in Wichita and I'm looking forward to seeing him continue to build off his success from 2017," Wingnuts manager Brent Clevlen said. "JJ has a smooth, easy delivery with electric stuff and I expect him to be a main part of our bullpen this year."
The Bridgeport, Conn., native played collegiately for Stony Brook University, helping the Seawolves to a College World Series appearance in 2012. Over three seasons, Campbell finished his college career 7-3 with seven saves and a 4.53 ERA. The Los Angeles Dodgers selected him in the 12th round following his junior season, leading Campbell to make his professional debut that season with Rookie-level Ogden.
Campbell went on to spend four injury-plagued seasons in the Dodgers organization, twice climbing to High-A Rancho Cucamonga where he was teammates with recent Wingnuts signee Daniel Tillman in 2015. Over those four campaigns, including a 2013 stint in the Australian Baseball League with the Adelaide Bite, Campbell recorded a 5.38 ERA in 117.0 innings. Campbell sat out the entire 2016 season before joining the Wingnuts in 2017.
Campbell's signing brings the number of Wingnuts players under contract for the 2018 season up to 21. American Association clubs may carry up to 28 players during spring training, which opens on May 6.
Stay up to date on all player signings and transactions by checking on the Wingnuts roster here.
The 11th season of Wingnuts baseball and the club's pursuit of an eighth consecutive division title kicks off with a three-game home series against the Kansas City T-Bones, beginning on Friday, May 18. For information on season tickets, group outings, and party packages, call the Wingnuts main office at (316) 264-NUTS, or visit the Wingnuts official website at www.wichitawingnuts.com.
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American Association Stories from March 28, 2018
- Hard-Throwing Campbell Returns to Wingnuts - Wichita Wingnuts
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