ST. PAUL, MN (September 25, 2008) – Recalling memories of J.D. Drew, the St, Paul Saints today announced the signing of Pittsburgh Pirates 2008 second round draft pick right-handed pitcher Tanner Scheppers.

 

            The 21-year-old Scheppers was chosen in the second round (48^th overall) by the Pirates out of Fresno State University.  In his junior season Scheppers was 8-2 with a 2.93 ERA in 12 games (11 starts) and one complete game.  In 70.2 innings pitched he walked just 34 and struck out 109 while opponents hit just .202 against him.  He was named 2008 WAC Pitcher of the Year and All-Conference First Team.

 

            In 2007, as a sophomore, in just his second year as a pitcher, he went 7-6 with a 4.74 ERA in 25 games (15 starts).  In 93.0 innings he walked just 32 and struck out 94.  He was selected First-team All-WAC and NCAA San Diego Regional All-Tournament Team.

 

            “Tanner has a bright future ahead of him,” said Saints manager George Tsamis.  “We are very excited that he will be starting his professional career in St. Paul.”

 

            Scheppers didn’t finish his 2008 campaign with the Bulldogs and was considered a top 10 pick, but due to a shoulder injury he dropped to the second round.  He stopped pitching with two weeks left in the Bulldogs season.

 

            After being drafted by the Pirates, Scheppers threw for the Pirates at PNC Park to show he was fully recovered, but the two sides couldn’t agree on a contract.

 

            “I’m really excited to start my baseball career especially with such a great organization,” said Scheppers.  “I think it’s a great fit for me.  I’ve heard nothing but great things.”

 

            The Saints signed outfielder J.D. Drew under similar circumstances in 1997 when he couldn’t come to terms with the Philadelphia Phillies.  Drew hit .341 with 18 homers and 50 RBI in 44 games for the Saints. 

 

            This is the first official 2009 off-season signing by the Saints.