Former University of Memphis pitcher Ryan O’Malley signed a free agent deal with the Chicago Cubs last week, making him the fourth Tiger player signed to a professional contract in the last two years.
A native of Springfield, Ill., O’Malley transferred to The U of M before the 2000-01 season after earning All-American and JUCO All-World Series Team honors at Lincoln Land Community College.
Last season for Memphis, O’Malley struck out a career-high 56 batters in 67 innings of work while holding opposing hitters to a .242 average. He ranked second on the staff with five wins and a 3.99 ERA.
"I've been a lifelong Cubs fan, so this is a dream come true," O'Malley said. “Now I just have to keep working hard and perform."
—Bryan Newcomb
