SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Former Augustana pitcher Parker Hanson is the fourth Viking in 2021 to sign a professional contract. The Hawley, Minnesota, native has signed a contract to play for the Sioux Falls Canaries of the American Association.
 
"I'm so happy for Parker," Augustana head coach Tim Huber said. "Every kid dreams of becoming a pro baseball player when they grow up, but not everyone has to find a way to get to that level with just one arm.
 
"He has proved people wrong his whole life and just kept working. He deserves this opportunity and I won't be surprised if he sticks around pro baseball for a while if he stays healthy."
 
Hanson is the 24^th player coached by Huber that has signed a professional contract. This season alone, Sam Baier, Koby Bishop and Max Steffens have all signed with the Kane County Cougars, also of the American Association.
 
In 2021, Hanson saw action in 12 games for AU while recording a 1-1 record with a save. In 21.2 innings pitched, he struck out 27 hitters. In the shortened 2020 season, Hanson made three appearances while pitching to a 1.93 ERA. In his Augustana career, he threw 31 innings while striking out 38 hitters.
 
Prior to Augustana, Hanson pitched at Dakota County Technical College and Minnesota Crookston.