Call it an early birthday present for the Rockies organization’s newest left-handed pitcher, Christian Friedrich.
The Eastern Kentucky product, who received a $1.35 million signing bonus, turns 21 on July 8. His first assignment as a professional begins Sunday in Pasco, Wash., for the Tri-City Dust Devils, the Rockies’ short-season Single-A affiliate.
“It’s been a long time waiting, and I’m really excited to be here and finally get going to start my professional career,” Friedrich said Thursday. His parents stood in the back of the interview room at Coors Field during his news conference, beaming with pride as they watched their son talk about making his dream a reality.
Friedrich was the Rockies’ No. 1 pick in the recent amateur draft, the 25th overall selection.
The 6-foot-3, 210-pounder improved each year at Eastern Kentucky. This past spring, as a junior, he ranked second in the NCAA in ERA (1.43) and second in hits allowed per nine innings (4.41). He was eighth in strikeouts per nine innings (11.9), thanks in part to a big-breaking curveball. He was named the 2008 Ohio Valley Conference pitcher of the year.
Friedrich acknowledged there are areas he can improve upon, notably holding runners and consistency in spotting his pitches.
While awaiting his pro assignment, Friedrich hit the gym.
He said he did “a lot of running, and I’ve been working out, and trying to prepare myself for what’s up and coming.”
Friedrich became the first Eastern Kentucky player drafted in the first round. Besides being impressed by Friedrich’s pitching, Rockies scouting director Bill Schmidt said his personality helped convince the organization.
“His character. What he stands for and what’s he’s about as a person,” Schmidt said, listing Friedrich’s qualifications.
Growing up in Chicago as a White Sox fan, Friedrich is visiting the Rocky Mountains for the first time. So far, he likes what he sees.
“It’s beautiful out here,” Friedrich said.
Yvette Lanier: 303-954-1033 or ylanier@denverpost.com
