Howick, 22, spent 2012 in the Houston Astros organization at Rookie Ball and Single-A Lexington.  He was drafted in the 21st round of the 2011 MLB draft out of Jacksonville University.  Howick, a right-hander who was an infielder in college and the Astros organization, will transition to pitcher.

“Pitching isn’t completely new to Jimmy and we think the transition will be a smooth one.  I’m excited to see how he performs on the mound.”