June 12, 2008

Stony Brook, N.Y. - Stony Brook University senior right-hander Gary Novakowski (Prospect, Conn.) has signed a free-agent contract with the Kansas City Royals, the organization announced on Wednesday. The Royals have assigned Novakowski to their short season Advanced Rookie League team, the Idaho Falls Chukars of the Pioneer League.

The 2007 America East Pitcher of the Year, Novakowski is tied for fourth in Seawolves history with 16 career victories. In 2008, he led the America East with seven wins and posted a 4.52 ERA in 83.2 innings of work. Novakowski is the 20th SBU player to sign a professional contract since the Seawolves made the move to Division I in 2000.

The Seawolves recently won their second America East title in five years on their way to 34 victories, the program's most wins since 2001.