The Windy City ThunderBolts have announced that LHP John Mincone’s contract has been purchased by the New York Mets. Mincone follows fellow 2011 ThunderBolt RHP Wes Alsup in being signed by a Major League Club in 2012.
The Huntington, New York native was drafted by the Chicago Cubs in the 11th round of the 2009 Amateur Draft. Mincone started 1 game while appearing in 3 games for the Cubs Rookie club in the Arizona League in 2009. He posted a 2-0 record with a 3.12 ERA over 8.2 innings. During his stint in 2009, John walked only 1 batter while striking out 7.
In 2010, Mincone was promoted by the Cubs to the Low-A Boise ballclub In the Northwest League. Over 23 innings with the Boise Cubs, John posted a 0-3 record with a 4.18 ERA, striking out 16 and walking 8.
Mincone signed with the ThunderBolts after being released by the Cubs on July 2, 2011. With the Bolts, he appeared in 6 games, starting 3. John posted a 1-2 record with a 4.61 ERA, striking out 8 and walking 9 over 13 innings pitched.
John will report to Extended Spring Training with the Mets in 2012. Mincone becomes the 32nd active roster ThunderBolt signed by a Major League Club since 2004.
The Windy City ThunderBolts open their 14th Frontier League season on Thursday, May 17th vs. Joliet at Standard Bank Stadium with a special one-game homestand featuring $1.25 beer and post-game fireworks! Season tickets, flex plans, fundraisers, and group outing opportunities are available now! Single-game tickets go on sale Saturday, April 28th at 10:00 am. Call 708-489-BALL or check out wcthunderbolts.com for more information!
