Orloski on way to Canada

It's time for Joe Orloski to start learning the words to a new national anthem.

After signing with the Toronto Blue Jays on Saturday, the Green Valley senior will have plenty of time to brush up on his "O Canada" lyrics in Medicine Hat, Alberta -- his home for the next three months.

The 6-3, 175-pound right-handed pitcher, the Blue Jays' sixth-round pick in last week's amateur draft, will play for the organization's summer Class A (Rookie) team in the Pioneer League from June 16 through Sept. 5.

"I'm very excited," said Orloski, who has never been to Canada. "Signing (the contract) felt great."

Three Blue Jays scouts spent much of Friday night in the Orloskis' home before the two sides reached an agreement early Saturday.

"They were very fair," Orloski's father, Joe, said. "We're really happy with what he got. Now he's anxious to get out there and start playing some ball."

Orloski said he's looking forward to the experience, although he added that he'll miss his his parents, Joe and Louise, as well as his bothers, Robert and Ries.

"It's emotional leaving my family, but not too many people get to play in Canada," he said.

Orloski, who helped the Gators to their sixth straight state title last month, went 10-1 this spring with a 2.06 ERA. In 68 innings on the mound, he struck out 68 batters.

Orloski and Chaparral catcher Russell Cleveland (Detroit Tigers) are the only local prep players to sign thus far.

Green Valley right-hander Mike Nannini and Bishop Gorman outfielder/pitcher Jason Van Meetren are in negotiations with the Houston Astros, while Green Valley first baseman David Jensen has a private workout scheduled with the Reds this weekend.

archive