Colin Fitzgerald, a right‑handed pitcher originally from Lititz, Pennsylvania, has officially signed with the Oakland Athletics as an undrafted free agent, marking the culmination of a five‑year collegiate odyssey that took him from the Maine Black Bears to the Nittany Lions.
From Maine to the Majors: A Journey of Resilience
Fitzgerald’s path began at Manheim Township High School, where he committed to the University of Maine before spending four seasons in the college ranks with the Black Bears. There he posted a 6.11 ERA across 45 appearances and amassed 171 strikeouts in 199 innings, establishing himself as a durable starter.
After a injury sidelined him for the 2024 season, the pitcher transferred to Penn State for his final year, assuming the role of ace and Friday night starter. In that role he delivered a career‑high 12 strikeouts against Oregon and finished with a 6.51 ERA over 13 starts, a performance that helped the team reach the NCAA Tournament and earned him First‑Team All‑America East honors.
The move to the Athletics comes as the second professional agreement signed by a Nittany Lion this summer, following the recent deal of All‑American designated hitter Michael Anderson, who was selected in the fifth round of the draft.
Athletics officials praised Fitzgerald’s high strikeout rate and his ability to command the mound under pressure, noting that his experience and resilience make him a promising addition to the club’s pitching rotation.