Where Are They Now: Brian Pellegrini

TROY, N.Y. - The name Brian Pellegrini is not as recognizable to ValleyCats fans as the other names in the Where Are They Now; ValleyCats Updates. Pellegrini was a member of the 2007 ValleyCats before missing the majority of the season due to injury.

The Houston Astros selected Pellegrini in the 12th round of the June 2007 Draft. The slugging right-handed enjoyed four outstanding seasons at St. Bonaventure University, establishing his place as one of the Atlantic-10's elite power hitters.

As a freshman in 2004, Pellegrini played in 50 games and hit .316 with seven home runs. Pellegrini increased his power production each year at St. Bonaventure, hitting 11 home runs as a sophomore, 13 as a junior and 17 in his senior season in 2007. Pellegrini also enjoyed a .391 batting average in his senior season and had a phenomenal OPS of 1.331.

Pellegrini reported to the ValleyCats in June to begin his professional career. After playing in five games, the Astros shut down Pellegrini for the remained of the season.

The Astros promoted Pellegrini to Lexington in 2008 despite limited experience at the lower levels. Pellegrini responded by hitting a team-best 21 home runs and 69 RBI in 87 games.