The Chicago Dogs announced today the acquisition of right-handed pitcher Josh Goossen-Brown for its 2018 inaugural season. The selection of Goossen-Brown officially marks the first player signing in the team’s history. The Chicago Dogs’ home opener is scheduled for May 25, 2018 at the state-of-the-art Impact Field currently under construction in Rosemont. The team will make their debut with the American Association of Independent Professional Baseball May 18, 2018.

“I am thrilled to have such a talented pitcher like Josh on the mound for our first season,” said Chicago Dogs team manager Butch Hobson. “He had a tremendous year in the American Association last season and I look forward to the possibility of him being our number one starter.”

Goossen-Brown, age 26, is a graduate of California State University Northbridge with a masters in global leadership from the University of San Diego. He was drafted in the 31st round by the Chicago White Sox in the 2014 MLB Draft. In 2017, Goossen-Brown helped lead the Wichita Wingnuts to the championship finals with 44.1 innings pitched, 36 strikeouts and a 1.62 ERA. He held opponents to a .186 batting average, allowing runs in only five of his 34 outings.

“I’m excited to be a part of this groundbreaking team,” said Josh Goossen-Brown. “From meeting the fans to helping guide this team to our first ever championship, I look forward to our first season at Impact Field.”