Jun 3, 2012; Toronto, ON, Canada; Toronto Blue Jays right fielder Jose Bautista (19) hits a 3-run home run in the 1st inning against the Boston Red Sox at the Rogers Centre. The Blue Jays beat the Red Sox 5-1. Mandatory Credit: Tom Szczerbowski-US PRESSWIRE

He joins junior C Joe Hudson, senior RHP Will Hudgins  and senior LHP Steve Sabatino as players who have signed minor league deals from No tre Dame this year. The Irish have not had more players reach agreement with MLB clubs following a season since 2008.

Spano made 65 appearances in his career with 1-8 record. His ERA is just outside of 5.10 and he limited his opponents to a low .252 batting average in his career.

Coach Aoki had this to say about Spano’s deal.

“Joe, for a lot of reasons, is a true example of perseverance,” said second-year head coach Mik Aoki. “To come back from major arm surgery is a credit to his hard work and commitment to his rehab. Joe’s first few outings in the fall were rather difficult for him, but he emerged as a stopper for us out of the bullpen and was critical to our success this season, particularly against left-handed batters. It would have been really easy for Joe to feel sorry for himself or make excuses, but he stuck with the program, returned to form, and now is getting the opportunity he deserves.” -und.com

Certainly an exciting time for the Notre Dame Baseball program. Stay logged onto to Slap the Sign for further updates on the MLB Draft.

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Apr 14, 2012; St. Louis, MO, USA; Detailed view of a 2011 St. Louis Cardinals World Series ring. Mandatory Credit: Scott Rovak/St. Louis Cardinals via US PRESSWIRE

He joined junior C Joe Hudson and senior RHP Will Hudgins; all whom are now professional players. This is the 2nd time ever Notre Dame has sent 3 players in 1 Draft.

Sabatino had a career 6-7 record with a 5.01 ERA. Sabatino collected 120 strikeouts in 140.0 career innings, good for a 7.71 per nine-inning average. He limited his opponents to a .269 career batting average.

“Being able to play professional baseball has been my dream for as long as I can remember,” said Sabatino. “Thanks to all the people who never stopped believing in me. I am so grateful for all their support. Notre Dame has pushed me to be the person I am today.” -und.com

Coming off of Tommy John surgery, Sabatino had a rough start to the season this year. He had a rough 9.22 ERA and issued 15 walks over 5 appearances.

However, he calmed down and finished strong. Sabatino recorded a 2.08 ERA with 23 strikeouts and only five walks in his last 22.0 innings of work, something Coach Aoki is proud of.

“Steve is another example of player that earned his draft selection,” said second-year head coach MikAoki. “He missed an entire season with Tommy John, but worked his tail off to be ready this season. Steve struggled early with his command this year, but kept at it and really helped us down the stretch this season.” -und.com

Certainly an exciting time for the Notre Dame Baseball program. Stay logged onto to Slap the Sign for further updates on the MLB Draft.

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June 5, 2012; Washington, D.C., USA; Washington Nationals center fielder Bryce Harper (34) reacts after hitting the game winning one-run RBI single in the twelfth inning against the New York Mets at Nationals Park. The Nationals defeated the Mets 7 - 6 in twelve innings. Mandatory Credit: Joy R. Absalon-US PRESSWIRE

The star pitcher had a great season last year. Hudgins was named all-Big East second team and had an ERA of just 2.06 with a record of 5-3. He led the conference in lowest ERA and has definitely proven himself as a great pitcher.

“I couldn’t be more excited to get drafted by the Washington Nationals,” said Hudgins. “I’m extremely proud to represent Notre Dame baseball and hope to make the most of this tremendous opportunity. I can’t express enough appreciation to all of my teammates, coaches and support staff that helped me along the way.” -und.com

The possibility of Hudgins with Nationals’ pitcher Stephen Strasburg is fantastic. He can learn so much from just watching Strasburg play. Hopefully the ND pitcher will be able to showcase his talents in the MLB instead of the Minor Leagues, but that may not happen.

Certainly an exciting time for the Notre Dame Baseball program. Stay logged onto to Slap the Sign for further updates on the MLB Draft.

Be sure to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook!