June 9, 2006 - Knazek Signs with the Angels

June 9, 2006
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rider’s Knazek Signs with the Angels

LAWRENCEVILLE—Bronc junior catcher Scott Knazek (Browns Mills/Pemberton), drafted by the Los Angeles Angels in the 15th round signed a professional contract Thursday.

Knazek is the 42nd Rider player in the last 36 seasons to sign a professional contract and is the 17th player under head coach Barry Davis to advance to the professional ranks. “There is nothing wrong with losing a player in this way,” said Davis. “You lose players all the time to injuries, grades, transfers. This is a positive for everyone.”

Knazek, batted .275 with 55 hits in 54 games. At 6’1”, 215 pounds, Knazek was third on the team in slugging percentage (.395) and led the team with 47 runs scored.

As a catcher Knazek threw out 17 runners attempting to steal this season. Last year as a sophomore Knazek earned second team All-Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference honors, batting .316.

In his Rider career, Knazek compiled 126 hits in 125 games, with 24 doubles, two triples and five home runs, while scoring 91 runs.

Knazek leaves Tuesday for a mini-camp at the Angels' training facility in Arizona and will play in Orem, Utah, for Angels Rookie League team, the Orem Owls.

-RU-