June 27, 2007

SLIPPERY ROCK, PA - Former University of Dayton pitcher Chris Rubio signed a professional contract to play for the Slippery Rock Sliders of the Independent Frontier League. Rubio marks the fourth pitcher in as many seasons to sign a professional contract and fifth Flyer overall.

"I am excited that Chris has been given the ability to continue his playing career in this fashion," UD Head Coach Tony Vittorio said. "I am glad to see he has gotten off to a successful start as he deserves this opportunity after being our Friday starter throughout this past season."

Rubio, a righthander from Vero Beach, FL, earned the win in relief during his first day on the roster for the Sliders on Tuesday. He entered in the third inning and allowed just two unearned runs on three hits over 3.0 innings pitched. Rubio struck out three and walked just two to defeat Chillicothe in his professional debut. The 6-3, 220-pounder is slated to start the second game of a doubleheader on Thursday as the Washington Wild Things visit Slippery Rock.

Rubio pitched for two seasons at UD after transferring Indian River Community College in home State of Florida. He recorded 11 victories and two saves in 37 career appearances while hurling three complete games. Rubio had a 4.68 career ERA fanned 107 batters while walking only 57 in 177.0 innings pitched. As a senior, he won six of his 14 starts and added a save with 62 strikeouts and 27 walks in 99.1 innings pitched.

The Slippery Rock Sliders are in their inaugural season as a member of the Frontier League. The Sliders play a 96-game schedule that began in Late May and runs until Early September at Jack Critchfield Park on the campus of Slippery Rock University.