Tim Ellis threw hard enough in high school to make college, pros; Saw two pro seasons

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Tim Ellis 1990 Watertown Indians

Originally published Aug. 17, 2022
The Escondido Times-Advocate assessed the local high school baseball teams in March 1985, including Tim Ellis' Ramona squad.

The paper cited another pitcher as the team's most consistent pitcher. The Times-Advocate then turned to Ellis.

"Ellis is the hardest thrower," The Times-Advocate wrote.

Ellis soon threw hard enough to go on to college and then to the pros. His pro career saw two seasons. He made high-A.

Ellis' pro career began in 1988, taken by the Cubs in the 28th round of the draft out of Rosemont Junior College in Sacramento.

At Ramona, Ellis struck out 10 in a May 1986 complete game win. He also threw a six-hitter for another win that month.

Ellis started with the Cubs at short-season Geneva. He saw 16 outings, two starts. He went 1-1, with a 4.28 ERA. That season marked his only time with the Cubs.

Ellis isn't credited as playing in 1989. But he returned in 1990. He started with the Indians and played at high-A Kinston and short-season Watertown. He went 1-1 at Kinston in nine outings, two starts, with a 3.20 ERA.

Ellis then moved to the Padres system mid-season. He saw 11 more outings between single-A Charleston and the rookie Arizona League. That season marked his last as a pro.

1990 Minor League Tally 
Players/Coaches Featured:4,204
Made the Majors:1,380-32.8%
Never Made Majors:2,824-67.2%
5+ Seasons in the Majors:561
10+ Seasons in the Minors:344

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