Mankato, Minn. – For the fourth time this season, a member of the 2009 Mankato MoonDog team signed a professional contract. Brenden Webb will start his professional career with the Baltimore Orioles, as he signed with the organization on Monday.

"I’m really excited and I can’t wait to get my career started with the Orioles,” Webb said. "It means a lot to get the opportunity to play professionally,” he added.

Webb just finished his first year with Palomar College in San Marcos, California where he hit .342 with eight home runs and 40 RBI. He was selected in the 30th round of this year’s Major League Baseball Amateur Draft.

Webb joined the MoonDogs in June and had played in 33 games. He finished with a .219 average with a home run and six RBI. Webb also put up a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage from his spot in right field.

"Playing in the Northwoods League this summer really helped me in making my decision to sign,” said Webb. "Playing everyday and just focusing on baseball day-in and day-out really gave me a feel for what minor league baseball will be like, and would like to thank the Northwoods League and the MoonDogs for that,” he added.

Webb will report to Sarasota, Florida and will begin with the Orioles Gulf Coast League affiliate.

Webb was the fourth member of this year’s team to sign a professional contract. Danny Jimenez (23rd round-Cleveland) is pitching for the Indians Arizona League affiliate (Class-A Rookie Ball), Matt Swynenberg (28th round-Washington) is playing the New York-Penn League with the Vermont Lake Monsters (Class A Short-Season) and Chris Murrill (35th round-Tampa Bay) is also in that league, playing outfield for the Hudson Valley Renegades.