CALGARY – For the first time in UC Dinos Baseball history, a graduate of the program has signed a pro contract and will pursue his dream with a Major League Baseball Club.

Brant Stickel, a four-year veteran of the Dinos program, has signed a contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers organization.

Stickel had a successful rookie season with the Calgary Vipers in the Golden Baseball League this past summer and then joined the Dinos coaching staff in the fall. He continued throwing on the side and in exhibition games hoping his call would come – and it did.

Stickel was flown down to Arizona to throw for a Dodger scout before the start of Instructional League workouts. After just four pitches, two of which read 92 on the radar gun, the scout had seen enough and offered a contract. After completing a physical, he was issued his Dodger uniform for Instructional League.

“This could not have happened to a more deserving, hardworking, respectful human being,” said Dinos head coach A.J. Fystro. “Brant deserves all the best that has come his way and more. His time in our program was inspirational for everyone involved.”

“We work out at a facility shared with the Chicago White Sox, it's called Camelback Ranch in Glendale, Ariz.,” Stickel said via email. “It's absolutely amazing here. The next month is Instructional League. We work out in the morning and then crossover and play other organizations' future prospects in the afternoon.

“As for my future plans they have told me I will be back for Spring Training in March and then be assigned where they see fit. Not only is this an amazing opportunity for me but it's great for the UC Baseball program as well.”

“The whole Dinos organization congratulates Brant, and we wish him all the best in Instructional League workouts,” Fystro said.

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