NORFOLK, Va. (ODUSports.com) - Old Dominion baseball's John Wilson signed as an undrafted free agent with the Minnesota Twins organization on Monday, August 3.
"My college career didn't exactly go as I imagined it, it's been a rough few years dealing with injuries but I'm happy to finally be healthy and have an opportunity to play at the next level," expressed Wilson. "Playing professional baseball has been my dream ever since I was young and I could not be more grateful to the entire coaching staff, all my teammates, trainers, academic advisors and everyone else at ODU who has helped me reach this goal. I can't wait to get to work!"
Wilson, a native of Pittstown, N.J., saw action pitching in three games, making one start in 2020. He went 8.2 innings, posting a 1.04 ERA. Through his three games, Wilson recorded six strikeouts, two in each game. On March 10, he pitched a season-high five innings against Norfolk State. Overall, in 2020, Wilson allowed one run, one walk and two doubles.
For 2018 and most of 2019, Wilson remained sidelined with injury. In 2019, he appeared in nine games and made one start at DH.
As a freshman, Wilson was named a Freshman All-American by Collegiate Baseball News. He was also named to the Conference USA All-Freshman Team, going 6-1 with a 3.41 ERA in 12 starts.
"We are all so happy for Johnny. He has really had to overcome a lot in regards to battling back from Tommy John surgery and we're so glad he has gotten this opportunity," said head coach Chris Finwood. "We all wish Johnny the best as he starts his professional career with the Minnesota Twins."
The only other Monarch to sign with the Twins organization was William Boyce, who played for ODU in 1962.
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