New South Wales (NSW) pitcher Todd Van Steensel, a product of the Greater Western Baseball system has agreed to terms with the Minnesota Twins Baseball Club.

Todd who is presently on the Gold Coast at the prestigious Major League Baseball (MLB) Australian Academy will report to Spring Training in Fort Myers, Florida in March of 2011.

Whilst at the MLB Australian Academy Todd is currently in the process of posting notable numbers as he goes head to head with some of Australia's best young talent. His current stats are 18 innings pitched; 23 strike outs; 0 walks; and a 1.50 era. Truly impressive numbers!

Todd was originally signed by the Philadelphia Phillies organization in 2008; however his stay with this club ended with his outright release during Spring Training of 2010. After his release Todd returned to his native Australia with his sights firmly set on returning to professional baseball.

Upon his return Todd sought the advice of several prominent baseball people including former big league player and now NSW High Performance Manager Glenn Williams. Glenn gave Todd valuable advice on aspects that would allow him every chance of regaining a fresh opportunity to return to professional baseball in the USA.

Further to this advice Todd also sought the services of Craig Stoves of Platinum Player Management. Craig strongly backed Glenn's advice and also provided some feedback to the eager pitcher on specific areas that would help give him every chance of success.

In April this year Glenn Williams included Todd on the roster for the NSW High Performance program where Todd set a cracking pace as he worked extremely hard during the program's schedule, along with doing extra work on his own. This commitment allowed Todd to get into the best shape and condition of his life. Come June Todd was ready to perform solidly at the MLB Australian Academy.

Minnesota Twins scout Howie Norsetter was on the Gold Coast at the MLB Australian Academy and saw firsthand the dominant performances of the committed pitcher. After seeing Todd excel on the mound, Howie Norsetter and the Twins felt comfortable in extending Todd an offer to sign a new pro-ball contract. Todd was elated knowing his hard work and determination had paid off and quickly said an excited "yes" to the Minnesota Twins when the offer was made.

Following the signing Twins scout Howie Norsetter shared his thoughts by saying. "Often times a player's release serves as a wakeup call. Of the four Aussie pitchers currently in the ML, two were released out of rookie ball. The vast majority of released players never get another chance to play professional baseball. We hope Todd will take advantage of his second chance. We were impressed with Todd's commitment since his release, and we are hopeful that he will now regain his status as a bona fide prospect with the Minnesota Twins."

On the Gold Coast Todd commented immediately after agreeing to terms with the Twins by saying "I was extremely determined to gain another opportunity in professional baseball and as such I understood just how much hard work it would take to re-sign. I instantly set about working hard and doing all the little things right. I was fortunate to be invited into the NSW High Performance program by Glenn, and with his help, the guidance of Craig, and the support of family and friends, this dream once again became a reality. I am extremely excited to restart my professional career with the Minnesota Twins"

Upon hearing the news of the latest signing out of New South Wales, Glenn Williams commented on the Twins' acquisition by saying. "Todd went through the adversity of being released earlier in the year and made the choice to do everything in his power to give himself another shot. Through hard work and determination Todd got himself in great shape and the results on the field continued to improve. I am extremely happy that he has received another chance to play professionally and I am sure he will make the most of this."

Todd completely understands that the hard work must continue in preparing for his return to the USA and professional baseball. The 2011 season may seem a long way away - however Todd knows this is not the case. The 2011 pro-ball season in reality is close and Todd with renewed vigour and great energy to succeed will be ready when March 2011 arrives.