HIGH POINT, N.C. – High Point Rockers right-handed pitcher Jose Atencio on Tuesday had his contract purchased by the Los Angeles Angels. Atencio becomes the 51st Rocker in just seven seasons to have their contract transferred to an MLB organization or international team.
A native of Maracaibo, Venezuela, Atencio had yet to throw a pitch for the Rockers in the regular season. He was the starter in last week’s exhibition game at Gastonia, allowing just two hits and no runs through four innings of work.
Atencio had been a member of the Washington Nationals farm system for five seasons. The 24-year-old was expected to be a top starter for the Rockers in 2026.
High Point has had eight players reach the Major League level after playing for the Rockers. The Rockers are currently represented by RHP Huascar Brazoban with the New York Mets, and RHP Ryan Weiss with the Houston Astros. Former Rocker LHP Brandon Leibrandt is pitching at Class AAA Louisville for the Cincinnati Reds while LHP Alberto Baldonado is currently pitching in Japan after competing for Panama in the World Baseball Classic. Baldonado was in MLB with the Nationals in 2021.
High Point continues its season-opening series with the Gastonia Ghost Peppers tonight at 6:35 p.m. at Truist Point. The Rockers will send RHP Fin Del Bonta-Smith to the mound to face Connor Grey.
