The Atlanta Braves have signed right-handed pitcher Jackson Dannelley to add some depth to their minor league system. The 23-year-old has been assigned to the rookie-level FCL Braves.
Dannelley, a reliever from Texas, spent part of the 2024 season playing independent league baseball with the Chicago Dogs in the American Association. He pitched in five games and threw 7 2/3 innings, posting a 10.57 ERA. While the American Association is a respected independent league, it still operates outside the Major League Baseball system. However, the league has a partnership with MLB.
Dannelley began his college career at Panola College, a community college in Texas. Over two seasons, including one shortened by the COVID-19 pandemic, he made 16 appearances, recording a 6.44 ERA and a 1.53 WHIP in 29 1/3 innings pitched.
He then moved on to play Division I baseball, spending time with both the Houston Cougars and the Purdue Boilermakers. Throughout his three seasons at the D-I level, he made 59 appearances, all out of the bullpen. His collegiate stats show a 6.46 ERA, a 1.25 WHIP, and 89 strikeouts in 92 innings.
Now, Dannelley has earned an opportunity to pitch in affiliated minor league baseball after spending time in both college and independent leagues. Given his career so far, it’s not surprising that he is starting at the lowest level. But with the right development, he could surprise and climb the ranks. Sometimes, all it takes is the chance to prove oneself.
