– Right-handed pitcher Zach Willeman is moving up the baseball ranks, as the Cincinnati Reds have officially signed him from the Sioux City Explorers, marking a major milestone in his professional career.
Willeman was in the midst of a strong second season with Sioux City, quickly establishing himself as a cornerstone of the pitching staff. Over 50 innings pitched this year, he compiled an impressive 2.34 ERA, showcasing sharp control and poise that caught the attention of major league scouts.
His consistent performance and ability to handle high-pressure situations made him one of the top arms in the league, and now, he’ll have a chance to prove himself within a Major League Baseball organization.
For the Explorers, Willeman’s departure is a bittersweet moment—losing a key player but gaining another success story of a player advancing from independent ball to the professional ranks. The move underscores Sioux City’s role as a launchpad for talent, offering players a path back to affiliated baseball.
Willeman’s signing by the Reds is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and the high level of competition within the independent leagues.
