Gophers junior TJ Oakes has signed with the Colorado Rockies, who drafted him last week in the 11th round.

"Everyone has told me that their organization is a good fit for me," said Oakes, whose father Todd is the Gophers pitching coach, "and I'm happy to be included with the club.

"They took a chance on me, are giving me this shot and couldn't be more excited," said Oakes, according to a U of M news release.

Oakes, a 6-5-inch right-hander, will report to the Tri-City Dust Devils in Pasco, Wash. Its the Rockies' Class A affiliate which starts its season on Friday and runs to September.

Oakes was a first team all-Big Ten pitcher this season. He was 7-3 record with a 2.31 earned run average

"It was an honor and privilege to put on a Gopher baseball uniform the last three years and be a part of the history and tradition," Oakes said. "I have memories that I will cherish for a lifetime and got to know some great teammates and coaches."