Former OSU Cowboy On Fast-Track In Astro Organization

Former OSU Cowboy and Bishop Kelley Comet Michael Freeman is on a fast track to the big leagues so far in the Astro organization.

Last week he was pitching against the Drillers, but the Green Country native already used to the surrounding of ONEOK as he as a starter for OSU in the park around a year ago.

"I got to throw here at night against K-State last year and then played here in high school, and now, at this point in my career to get to play here again, it's pretty cool to be home," Freeman said.

He's adjusting to AA ball, coming in out the bullpen for relief with Corpus Christi.

Last week he pitched three innings - a long relief appearance with two strikeouts. He's still getting accustomed from being the starter to being the guy out the pen.

"It's a different mentality, staying in the game and having to show up to the field every day and getting an opportunity to pitch every night. It's been really fun to do something else, too," he said.

And, he said it helps when you have another OSU Cowboy in Brendan McCurry with you.

"You always have someone to talk to, always have somebody you have things in common. Yeah, sometimes the guys get frustrated when we say 'hey, remember this guy or that guy we played against,’" Freeman said.

But there are still somethings about Oklahoma he still misses. His wife is graduating from OSU this year, and he still tries to keep in touch with Cowboys pitching coach Rob Walden, along with just missing family and friends.

But, for a guy who made a complete reversal to get to this level, he's grateful for the opportunity and optimistic on what lies ahead in his career.

“I couldn't have imagined three years ago that I would be right here today playing professional baseball at this level. So, to be in this situation has been a huge blessing for me,” Freeman said.