Aug. 24, 2012

DeKALB, Ill. - Former Northern Illinois catcher Brett Frantini (2009-2012) signed a contract with the Baltimore Orioles Rookie League affiliate Aug. 17 and reported the Gulf Coast League Orioles in Sarasota, Fla., Tuesday.

"It's great news for Brett and his family," said Head Coach Ed Mathey, "I know that this is something he had a dream of doing and he worked hard to reach his goal. He was a good player in our program and we're happy to have another Huskie playing Major League affiliated baseball. We wish him nothing but the best."

A native of Minooka, Ill., Frantini traveled to Florida following the end of the 2012 season to live and train with batting coach Dave Kraft. Frantini was very appreciative of the opportunity and said "I want to thank the Gary, Judy, Brian and Shawn Spezio for helping me get setup with Dave down in Sarasota."

Since signing the free-agent deal, Frantini has played in two games with the Orioles with four at-bats. The team has three games remaining in its 2012 season, a double-header beginning tomorrow beginning at 10 a.m. CT, and will close its season Saturday against the Gulf Coast League Rays.

Frantini is one of three Huskies currently playing in Major League Baseball's farm system, joining 2009 Baltimore Orioles draftee (16th round) Bobby Stevens, currently with the Mississippi Braves, Atlanta's AA affiliate, and Jake Hermsen, a Los Angeles Dodgers 2012 draftee and Ogden Raptors pitcher.

Frantini is the Huskies all-time leader in runners caught stealing (41) and was named to Johnny Bench Award watch list at the start of the 2012 season.

For more updates on NIU baseball, visit www.NIUHuskies.com and follow the team on Twitter @NIU_Baseball.