The Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks have their ace back.
The RedHawks have re-signed LHP Jake Laber to a contract for the 2012 season. Laber becomes the fifth player signed by manager Doug Simunic.
Laber, 25, was 10-7 with a 3.55 ERA in 23 games (21 starts) for the RedHawks in 2011. He set a franchise record with 139.1 innings pitched and allowed 66 runs (55 earned) on 142 hits. Laber struck out 100 batters and walked 62, while giving up just six home runs.
Laber finished seventh in the American Association with a 3.55 ERA, tied for second in starts, pitched a pair of complete games and one shutout. He was named the American Association Pitcher of the Week for June 19.
Laber is a Fargo native who pitched collegiately at North Dakota State University. He began his professional career in 2008 with the RedHawks before he was traded to the River City (MO) Rascals of the Frontier League during that summer. He was reacquired by Fargo-Moorhead from River City prior to the 2010 season.
“Jake is easily one of the top pitchers in independent baseball,” said Simunic. “He’s a top of the rotation guy who gives us a great chance to win every time he goes out there.”
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