RailCats Trade Kovalik, Add Wozniak
June 30, 2016 - American Association (AA)
Gary SouthShore Railcats News Release
Winnipeg, MB, CA - The Gary South Shore RailCats announced today that they sent RHP John Kovalik to the Kansas City T-Bones to complete a former trade. Kovalik serves as the "player to be named' from the trade that brought RHP Richard Castillo to the SouthShore. The RailCats also signed rookie RHP Conrad Wozniak to his first professional contract and will make his pro debut in the final game of the three game series in Winnipeg Thursday night.
Kovalik was in his third stint with the RailCats. He signed in July of 2015 but didn't make an appearance before being released. He rejoined the squad in August and made a positive impact late in the season. The right-hander pitched in 10 games and posted a 2.91 ERA. He struck out 13 batters in 12.1 innings and did not factor in the decision.
The Aurora, Ohio native recorded solid numbers in the early part of 2016. He has thrown 18.2 innings and given up six runs. He struck out 15 batters and walked nine. Kovalik's last appearance as a RailCat was last night in Winnipeg. He went 0.2 innings and allowed two hits.
Castillo, the player Gary SouthShore originally acquired in the trade, is having a superb season. The Venezuelan is 2-1 with a 3.69 ERA and four quality starts.
The addition of Wozniak to the team is crucial. RailCats were in desperate need of a starting pitcher, as the team could not bring starters Richard Castillo and Karl Triana to Canada to play the Winnipeg Goldeyes.Â
Wozniak joins Gary SouthShore following a successful college career at the University of Maryland Baltimore County. In his senior year as a Retriever, the 6'2" Wozniak went 6-3 with a 3.32 ERA. He started 14 games and threw four complete games, including one shutout. He struck out 57 batters compared to 24 walks.
Wozniak's most impressive season was his junior year. He went 4-1 with a 1.48 ERA in 12 starts. He struck out 56 batters. UMBC is a member of the NCAA's Division 1 and participates in the America East Conference. Wozniak is from Cypress, TX, a town near Houston. He went to Frank Phillip College for two years before transferring to UMBC. His career record is 26-10 with a 2.72 ERA.
The RailCats continue their 15th anniversary season tonight against Winnipeg on the road in Canada. The game can be heard on 95.9 WEFM and online at RailCatsBaseball.com. For more information on Gary South Shore RailCats season tickets and Group Outing information call 219-882-2255 or visit www.railcatsbaseball.com.
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