Otters LHP Jose Velez Named Frontier League Pitcher of the Week
Published on September 1, 2014 under Frontier League (FL)
Evansville Otters News Release
(EVANSVILLE, INDIANA) - Evansville Otters left-handed pitcher Jose Velez was named the Frontier League Pitcher of the Week on Monday.
Velez, a native of Tampa, Florida, went 1-0 striking out a career high 16 batters in his only start of the week on August 29 against Windy City. Velez tied right-hander Chris Pilllsbury who set the Otters single game strikeout record with 16 back on August 8, 2006.
This is the first Frontier League pitcher of the week award for Velez.
"I was excited when I heard the news," said Velez. "I had a great day when I pitched against Windy City and making history as well was very special. Having this award is great and I'm honored that I was one of those players. I couldn't have done this without my teammates."
Velez began his professional career with the Otters mid-way through the 2013 season, yielding one run in 9.0 innings pitched. This year, he has been one of the top Evansville pitchers, moving from the bullpen to the starting rotation where he has thrived in both spots. Velez is 2-4 with a 2.47 earned run average. He also has 74 strikeouts in just 54.1 innings pitched this year.
"I am very happy for Jose earning this recognition," said Evansville manager Andy McCauley. "He has pitched very well for us in a number of roles."
Velez is the fourth Otter to be named pitcher/player of the week this season. Outfielder Chris Sweeney was selected as the player of the week on July 14 after his 11-for-22 stretch with three home runs. First baseman Nik Balog and pitcher Trevor Walch also received Frontier League player/pitcher of the week honors on July 28 as well.
Evansville is off on Monday before beginning their final regular season series at Washington on Tuesday, September 2. The four game series begins with a doubleheader at Consol Energy Park. Evansville will have Velez (2-4, 2.47 ERA) going in game one with righty Will Oliver (3-0, 1.68 ERA) scheduled to pitch in game two. Both games are scheduled for seven innings with first pitch set for 5:05 pm CDT. Fans can listen in to the game live on WUEV 91.5 FM beginning with the pre-game show at 4:45 pm CDT.
Frontier League Stories from September 1, 2014
- Witt, McFeaters Earn Postseason Honors - Rockford Aviators
- Otters LHP Jose Velez Named Frontier League Pitcher of the Week - Evansville Otters
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