Former Kansas University pitcher Brett Bochy has joined the San Francisco Giants, where he will become the first pitcher to be coached by his father in the major leagues.
The Giants purchased Brett Bochy’s contract, and he joined the big-league team Tuesday in Colorado.
“This is what you dream about every day,” Bochy told MLB.com’s Chris Haft. “I was surprised, honored and grateful to have the opportunity to be (called) up.”
A 20th-round draft pick in 2010 by San Francisco, Bochy spent the last two seasons with the Fresno Grizzlies, the Giants’ AAA affiliate, where he tossed a combined 1101/3 innings for a 3.92 ERA and 5-5 record. In four years in the minors, the righty saw action in 2042/3 innings, amassing 227 strikeouts and allowing 69 earned runs for a 3.03 ERA.
“When I got the text from (Brett) telling me he had been called up to the big leagues, I had goosebumps,” KU coach Ritch Price said. “He is one of the greatest Jayhawks and best teammates I have ever been associated with. To see him rewarded — he chased his dreams, grinded through a tough Tommy John injury — I’m just elated.”
Bruce Bochy has managed the Giants since 2007.
It’s the eighth father-son tandems in major-league history, but the first involving a pitcher.
“It has to be — for Bruce Bochy and Brett Bochy, for a baseball family — one of the greatest days when he goes out there to make his first appearance,” Price said. “There have been managers who have had sons play for them, but they have been position players. When Bruce goes out there and gives (Brett) the baseball, that will be one of the greatest days in baseball history.”
While at Kansas, Bochy helped the Jayhawks to an NCAA Tournament berth in 2009. He made 30 appearances and was 5-0. He finished his career at Kansas (2008-10) with a 7-0 record in 77 innings pitched. He allowed 31 earned runs for a 3.62 ERA while recording 106 strikeouts.
