Sports
Bergen Pitcher Signs Contract With Pittsburgh Pirates
John O'Reilly finished his Rutgers University career with 49 starts and was the ace of the staff his senior season.
A Bergen County pitcher and recent Rutgers University graduate signed a contract with the Pittsburgh Pirates Wednesday.
John O'Reilly, a Northvale native and alumnus of Northern Valley Regional High School at Old Tappan, reported to the Pirates' team headquarters in Florida to await assignment, Rutgers reported.
"I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to extend my career and play professional baseball," O’Reilly said. “My family and I could not be more excited.”
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O'Reilly finished his collegiate career ranked second in Rutgers history with 49 starts, fourth with 300 innings pitched, and 174 strikeouts. The right-hander was the ace of the staff this past season.
O'Reilly was a double major in labor studies and criminal justice. He was a three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection.
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O'Reilly is the third Scarlet Knight from the 2018 roster to move up to the Major League level. Jawuan Harris and Nick Matera were the first two.
"I am elated that John is getting the chance to show what he can do at the next level," Rutgers baseball head coach Joe Litterio said. "He’s been a bulldog for us for the past four seasons. I wish him the best of luck and we will be following him."
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