Don Welchel

Donald Ray Welchel (born February 3, 1957 in Atlanta, Texas, USA) is a former right-handed Major League Baseball pitcher who played for the Baltimore Orioles in 1982 and 1983.

Prior to playing professionally, he attended Lake Highlands High School in Dallas, Texas, and then Sam Houston State University. He was originally drafted in the 10th round of the 1975 draft by the Cincinnati Reds, however he didn't sign. He was next drafted by the Orioles in the seventh round of the 1978 draft, signing that time. He was signed by scout Ray Crone.

Welchel made his big league debut on September 15, 1982, against the New York Yankees. As a relief pitcher, he earned the win in his first big league game. He spent one more game in the big leagues that season, going a combined 1–0 with an 8.31 ERA. In 1983, he made 11 relief appearances for the Orioles, going 0–2 with a 5.40 ERA. On May 31 he appeared in his final game.

Overall, Welchel spent 13 games in the big leagues over two years, going 1–2 with a 5.81 ERA. In 31 innings he allowed 39 hits and 12 walks, while striking out 19.^[1]

Welchel also spent 11 seasons pitching in the minor leagues, from 1978 to 1988, going a combined 93–87 with a 3.64 ERA in 267 games (217 starts). In 1981, pitching for the Charlotte O's and Rochester Red Wings, he went 14–8 with a 2.86 ERA.

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