Pirates Sign Fresno State Bulldogs Thomas Harlan

The Pirates announced today that they had signed 13th round pick Thomas Harlan a left hander from Fresno State University.  He will report to State College to pitch for the Spikes whose season begins Monday.

Last year, the Pittsburgh Pirates selected Josh Poytress from Fresno State in the 18th round. He went on a tear this season for the Bucs (and you’ve heard Poytress on our RumBunter Podcast).

He went 7-7 with a 2.78 ERA for the Bulldogs.

The 6’6″ southpaw struck out 85 batters and walked 16 in 106.2 innings. The scouts loved his improved command this season, and we’re sure the Bucs West Coast scout has some credibility after what Poytress has accomplished before getting injured this season.

He took home second-team All-WAC honors in 2012. His career record was 14-10 with four saves and a 3.93 ERA with 170 punch outs in 90 games, 29 of them starts, during his collegiate career.

He wasn’t ranked in Baseball America’s Top 500.

Bio article on Harlan from today.

Here is recent video of Harlan:

Thomas Harlan LHP Fresno State University

Posted a career record of 14-10 with four saves, a 3.93 ERA and 170 strikeouts in 90 games (29 starts) during his collegiate career.