Valparaiso University alum Jon Gulbransen (2008-2011) joined his former teammate Tyler Deetjen (2009-2012) by signing a professional contract with the Gary SouthShore RailCats on Tuesday evening.

Gulbransen, who was with the Chicago White Sox organization in the Rookie League last year, was given the start just hours after signing the contract in Gary.  He allowed just one run and two hits in 3.2 innings of work in his first professional appearance since playing with the Great Falls Voyagers last summer.

Gulbransen holds Valpo’s innings pitched record (327.1), ranks third all-time in strikeouts (264), and is fourth all-time with 18 victories.

Deetjen signed with the RailCats just over a week earlier than Gulbransen and has already made three appearances, including a pair of starts.  He has a 1-1 record with a 4.05 ERA.