EUGENE, Ore. - Former VMI right-hander Coby Cowgill has been assigned to the San Diego Padres' Northwest League affiliate, the Eugene Emeralds, to continue his pro career.

Cowgill, VMI's 2012 opening day starter, was released by the Texas Ranger organization May 17 and signed with San Diego just hours later. He had been in extended spring training during his initial days with the Padres. Cowgill will be teammates with another former Big South player, Liberty alumnus Josh Richardson.

The Eugene Emeralds open their season Friday, facing the Boise Hawks in a home game.