Graham returns after making 17 appearances on the mound for the Mallards last summer in posting a 1-2 record and 4.67 ERA over a team-high 44.1 innings of work. He also recorded three saves. Manager Thieleke often states that when Graham “is on, his stuff rivals anyone in the game” and should be a big part of the Mallards bullpen. A two-way player, Graham also recorded seven hits and scored two runs over 37 at-bats.“J.R. gives us flexibility in being a two-way guy, but we’re really looking for him to improve on the mound this summer,” said Thieleke.
“This spring he’s been clocked in the 92 to 94 mph range and he knows this is going to be a big summer for him personally.”
