Elie Kligman Signs With the Pickles

In a splash move, Elie Kligman, renowned catcher from Sacramento State University, has officially signed with the Portland Pickles! Known for his stellar performance both behind the plate and at bat, Kligman's transition to the West Coast League this summer marks a pivotal chapter in his promising career.

Kligman has had a unique path in his collegiate baseball career. The former Cimarron-Memorial (NV) standout was taken in the 20th round of the 2021 MLB Draft, but decided to stick with the collegiate ranks. His most outstanding traits, however, is how he carries himself off the field. He is extremely committed to his Jewish faith and is open about his observation of the Sabbath, and is one of the first Orthodox Jewish players in division one baseball. See more here.

On the field, Kligman is an absolute monster. The former 14th-ranked recruit in Nevada has found a home with the Sacramento State Hornets where he will be a key contributor to their up-and-coming program. The standout catcher brings incredible athleticism and versatility to the plate, base paths & defense that will make him a key member of the 2024 Pickles squad.

Portland Pickles Manager, Mark Magdaleno, had this to say about the signing:

“An athletic catcher who was drafted by the Washington Nationals in the 2021 MLB Draft who comes from a baseball family. He is a switch-hitting catcher with legitimate power and I expect him to produce runs for us. I’m excited to have him in Portland because he competes and he is a leader. A young man of principle.”