Monday, June 11, 2001

[ MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL ]

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Coleman signs
with A’s

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By Al Chase
Star-Bulletin

Jeff Coleman realized his childhood dream to play pro baseball yesterday, signing a contract with the Oakland Athletics.

The University of Hawaii junior right-hander had been negotiating by telephone with the major league club ever since being selected in the 21st round of the first-year-player draft last Wednesday.

Coleman was named the most outstanding pitcher for the Rainbows this past spring. In his only season with Hawaii he posted an 8-6 record with a 3.75 earned run average.

Before returning home to San Dimas, Calif., after the spring semester, Coleman said he felt he was ready to try pro ball.

"Being a junior allowed me a little bit of room to make a choice," he said. "I felt I developed a lot the past two years, finished strong this year and felt I was ready to go to the next level."

Coleman, who will be assigned to Oakland's rookie team in the Arizona League, reports Wednesday.

He received a signing package that included bonus money and money to finish school.

"I'm happy with the bonus," said Coleman. "I'm not the least disappointed.

"Now, I'll never have to say 'what if' I had not signed. Even if I get hurt, at least I'll be able to say I played pro ball. That's been my dream since I was 5 years old."

Coleman was the only Rainbow selected this year. He was the 641st pick overall.