Baseball | 10/4/2011 10:03:00 AM

MONMOUTH, Ore. - Baseball fans all know the importance of having a quality closer to shut the door on the opponent's hopes of a comeback in the late innings.

Well it appears the Missoula Osprey found one this season past season in former Western Oregon baseball student-athlete DJ Johnson. Johnson took over the backend of the bullpen this season and helped the Osprey make a push into the Pioneer League North Division Playoffs. He was just awarded with a three-year minor league deal by the Arizona Diamondbacks on Monday, Oct. 3.

The 6-4, 235 lbs., right hander pitched in 20 games this season and posted a 2.08 earned run average and tied for a league-high 10 saves. He struck out 32 batters in 26 innings, while walking just seven. He also did not allow a home run and gave up just six runs and 16 hits. Opponents hit just .176 off the Beaverton, Ore., native and he went a month without allowing an earned run.

"We are very proud of DJ and his success is a testament to all his hard work," said Western Oregon head coach Jeremiah Robbins. "He has does a great job representing Western Oregon University and we wish him luck as he continues to live the dream of playing professional baseball."

Western Oregon head coach Jeremiah Robbins has also made a point to reach out to all former Wolves baseball alumni. If you are a WOU baseball alum please take a moment to fill out this short questionnaire to update Robbins and his staff on your information and be added to the baseball mailing list.

"We want to continue to reach out to all our alumni who have helped build the baseball program to what it is today," explained Robbins.