From NYU Athletics
New York University 2017 graduate Adrian Spitz, a three-year member of the Violets' baseball team, signed as a free agent with the Oakland Athletics on Wednesday, June 21.
"It's a dream come true" Spitz commented. "I'm excited to work hard, and start climbing up the Oakland A's organization."
A Sports Management major in NYU's School of Professional Studies, Spitz is the second player to sign a professional baseball contract since NYU debuted NCAA varsity baseball at the Division III level in 2015 (the Violets had ceased competing as a Division I program following the 1974 season). Catcher CJ Picerni signed with the Washington Nationals organization following the 2016 season.
Spitz finished his final season for the Violets with 32 RBI, two home runs and a .371 batting average. He has posted the program's highest career batting average (.373), and ranks second all-time in hits (131), RBIs (88) and stolen bases (49).
"What a great day for Adrian Spitz and NYU Baseball!" said NYU Head Coach Doug Kimbler. "Adrian has worked hard, and I believe he will take advantage of this unbelievable opportunity."
Spitz, who will begin his professional career with the AZL Athletics in the Arizona League, helped lead NYU to a program best 23-13 record in 2017.