Ex-Seal Bibens-Dirkx in spring camp with Nationals

Photo courtesy of Christian Stewart

After declaring free agency and turning a few heads with a dominant performance in the Venezuelan Winter League, former Victoria Seals pitcher Austin Bibens-Dirkx was signed to a minor-league contract by the Washington Nationals in January. The Nationals then rewarded his efforts by inviting him to attend spring training with the club in Viera, Florida as a non-roster invitee.

Over the winter, Bibens-Dirkx led the Venezuelan Winter League in wins (7) and posted a sparkling 2.19 ERA. He also struck out 51 batters and only walked 22 in 78 innings pitched, while holding opponents to a paltry .201 batting average.

Bibens-Dirkx had been part of the Chicago Cubs systems since he was signed in July 2009 after mowing down Golden Baseball League hitters while a member of the Victoria Seals. If all goes well, Bibens-Dirkx could become the second ex-Seal to make the big leagues (Dane De La Rosa was the first). The Nationals are set to start their exhibition schedule tomorrow afternoon with a game against Georgetown University. Best of luck in spring training, Austin!