TAMPA, Fla. (May 31, 2005) – University of South Florida right-handed pitcher Tim Mattison signed with the Orem Owlz (Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim) of the Pioneer League (Rookie). The fifth-year senior will report to the Owlz on June 12.

“It's always been a dream of mine to play ball professionally,” said Mattison. “And now I have that opportunity.”

Fifth-year seniors are given the opportunity to sign with a professional club once their team's season is officially over – given that it takes place before the “closed period” (beginning May 31, one week before the Major League Baseball Draft, June 7-8, 2005). Mattison, who underwent Tommy John Surgery (March 8, 2004), was red-shirted in 2004 after seeing action in only three games.

Mattison appeared in 26 contests for USF this past season, recording a 1.54 ERA with 35 strikeouts in 46 and two-thirds innings. The Jacksonville native tallied a team-high eight saves during the 2005 season, ranking eighth in Conference USA. Mattison compiled a 4-4 record with 72 strikeouts and a 3.02 ERA with nine saves during his three seasons at USF.

Prior to coming to USF, Mattison played at Florida College in Temple Terrace for one season after one year at Florida CC in Jacksonville.