Former Southern Illinois University catcher Hunter Harrigan is expected to sign a free agent contract with the Texas Rangers this week.

A native of Highlands Ranch, Colo., Harrigan is headed to Spokane, Wash., to play for the Spokane Indians, Texas’ Class A Short-Season affiliate.

Harrigan transferred to SIU from Cowley County Community College in 2005, and hit just below .200 with 45 runs scored, 20 doubles, six home runs and 56 RBI. A two-year captain, he gunned down 38 baserunners in 101 starts behind the plate.

Statistically, his numbers weren’t all that impressive, but it was Harrigan’s other abilities that caught the eye of Rangers scout Mike Grouse.

Harrigan is the third Saluki from head coach Dan Callahan’s 2006 squad to move on to the professional level.