By: Dutchmen Front Office
March 28th, 2014
In 2014, the Dutchmen continued their quest to put together a roster balanced with intriguing, young talent and proven experience. Which is why Coach Davey’s pitching staff will be buoyed by the presence of Norte Dame College starter, Jake Welch, the most recent Mountain East Conference Pitcher of the Week.
A 6’6” right-hander from Spencerport, New York, Welch earned team MVP and All Conference honors in high school before signing with SUNY Jefferson CC. After two seasons, he transferred to Notre Dame College, where he has thrived. As a member of the Watertown Rams last summer, Welch appeared in six games out of the bullpen, throwing 16 innings, allowing eleven hits and striking out 16 on his way to a 1.16 ERA. In his first season as a starter at Notre Dame College, Welch has started off the season hot. He’s 4-1 in five starts, compiling a 1.41 ERA and recording 40 strikeouts in 32 innings, while allowing only 19 hits.
This past week he spun another gem this past weekend in a 2-0 victory over Virginia-Wise and was named the MEC Pitcher of the Week for his efforts. On Saturday, he threw a three-hit complete game shutout, marking his second straight complete game shutout and third of the season. In four of his five outings this season, he's allowed two runs or fewer, on three hits or less.
With his experience in the PGCBL and versatility, Welch figures to be a key asset for the Dutchmen this summer.
