I have covered Drew Rucinski since he was the best starting pitcher in the Valley League in 2008 for the Luray Wranglers. He returned to the Valley in 2009 and 2010 as well, and was named the #10 starting pitcher in 2010. Like all VBL alums in the pros, ATVL has been rooting for him to fulfill his dream.
Drew was signed as a non-drafted free agent out of Ohio State in 2011 by the Cleveland Indians, and threw very well at three different levels (4-0, 2.92, 47 K’s in 37 innings pitched), but, for some reason, the Indians released him.
He then spent all of 2012 and part of 2013 in the independent Frontier League, until the Los Angeles Angels signed him in August, and sent him to the California League for three weeks at the end of the season.
In 2014, Drew was assigned to Double-A Arkansas out of spring training, and set about ripping through the league. From April to the beginning of July, Drew went 7-4, 2.35. In 95 2/3 innings pitched, he gave up only 81 hits, 28 walks, and struck out 85.
All this to say that ATVL is 100% pleased to announce that Drew has been called up to the major leagues- in fact, on July 10, he made his debut for the Angels, pitching an inning in relief against the Texas Rangers! Drew joins Eric Campbell (Luray 2006), Taylor Hill (Winchester 2008), and Tommy La Stella (Haymarket 2009) as former VBL alumni to make their debuts in the majors this year!
Way to go, Drew!
(Now, I’ve just read that Drew was sent back down to Double-A a couple days ago, but Drew is now officially a major leaguer!)
All Things Valley League 