Ziegler-Finally a major leaguer

Word that Brad Ziegler was called up over the weekend by the Oakland A's spread through the media ranks in this area and I can tell you that there are some very happy sports reporters in the Ozarks. The former Missouri State pitching standout has dominated in his new role as a short reliever for AAA Sacramento and has been an extremely cooperative interview for anyone that calls for a request.

Ziegler is the all-time leader in wins at Missouri State and was instrumental in leading the Bears to the 2003 College Baseball World Series in Omaha. He was drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies out of College and played one injury filled season before being released. After a stint in an independent league, the right hander signed with Oakland where he began his pitching career as a starter. He has amassed nearly 30 career victories as a professional pitcher, mostly as a starter. However Ziegler proved to be more than a team player before last season when the A's organization asked him to change his pitching style. While he always threw from various positions on the mound, the A's asked him to become a submarine style pitcher. While he did well last season, it has taken him a full year to learn the new style of pitching.

This season with Sacramento, Ziegler went 2 and 0 with eight saves and a .37 earned run average in 24 innings pitched. He gave up a total of two runs all season and pitched a scoreless inning in his major league debut with Oakland on Saturday.

Having said all of that, it couldn't have happened to a nicer guy. That doesn't come from just me, but most all who know him would agree. Ziegler is the team sports junkie. A guy that communicates well with players on all teams and has connections with players at all levels. He has also been a link for those of us in the media to stay connected to many former area athletes playing professionally. He gives listeners to Jock 98.7 frequent updates on how many of his friends and former teammates are doing and at what level.

It wouldn't surprise me in the least to see Ziegler in the media after his (we hope) long major league career ends. Because good things happen to good people and Brad Ziegler is one of those guys that paid his dues and the fruits of his labor are finally paying off.