Former V-Hawk Jaenke Signs with Texas Rangers

LA CROSSE, Wis. – Former Viterbo University baseball standout Brandon Jaenke has signed a free agent contract with the Texas Rangers, earning the opportunity to begin his professional baseball career following the 2026 Major League Baseball Draft.

 

A native of Fall Creek, Wisconsin, Jaenke spent four seasons with the V-Hawks before completing his collegiate career at the University of Minnesota. During his time at Viterbo, he established himself as one of the most accomplished arms in program history.

 

Jaenke appeared in 49 games during his Viterbo career, making 30 starts while compiling a 13-16 record over 199.0 innings pitched. He struck out 260 batters, averaging nearly 12 strikeouts per nine innings, and threw five complete games, including one shutout. He set the Viterbo single-season strikeout record with 104 punchouts in 2024 before finishing his career as the program's all-time strikeout leader with 260.

 

Following his Viterbo career, Jaenke transferred to the University of Minnesota for his final season of eligibility. Pitching out of the bullpen for the Golden Gophers, he made 22 appearances, posted a 4.08 ERA, recorded four saves and struck out 30 batters in 28.2 innings. He was named to the CSC Academic All-District Team and earned a spot on the NCBWA Stopper of the Year Midseason Watch List before signing with the Rangers organization.

 

The entire Viterbo Athletics family congratulates Brandon on this tremendous accomplishment and wishes him continued success as he begins his professional baseball career with the Texas Rangers.