Agent Expects Spring Training Invite For Jake Odorizzi

The agent for Milwaukee Brewers 2008 supplemental first-round draft choice, right-handed pitcher Jake Odorizzi, said he expects his client to receive an invite to spring training in 2011.

“We do expect one, and we expect one because a couple reasons,” said Odorizzi’s agent, Jason Wood. “One, because Jake has given a lot to the organization already in terms of willingness to learn. He’s participated in everything they’ve asked him to do, he’s done. Everyplace they’ve asked him to fly, every program they’ve wanted him to participate, he’s done that. And he knows that’s in his best interest.”

Odorizzi completed his third minor league season in 2010 with the Class A Wisconsin Timber Rattlers in Appleton, for which he was named the organization’s Minor League Pitcher of the Year.

His 2010 season will probably best be remembered for his combined no-hitter with relief pitcher Adrian Rosario. Odorizzi pitched the first eight innings of the no-no before giving way to Rosario to close out the game on August 24.

Just because Odorizzi may get an invite to spring training, doesn’t mean he has a chance of playing for the Brewers this season, even a slim one. It would be more of an opportunity to just let him get a taste of the major league.

“He did get called up for a few spring training games last year but didn’t get to participate,” said Wood. “So my guess is, to help acclimate him to a big league clubhouse and to help get him familiar with that environment, I think he will get an invite. I just don’t know how much time he’ll get on the mound, but I do think he’ll be an active participant in next year’s big league spring training.”

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