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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