Charlie Ruud left his career as a professional baseball pitcher this week. In September, he’ll become associate pastor of  Bethel Lutheran Church in Northfield, Minn.

Ruud, 27, played five years with the independent St. Paul Saints of the American Association. During that time, he also earned a divinity degree from Luther Seminary in St. Paul.

“Charlie Ruud is, and always will be, a true Saint,” said Saints coach George Tsamis.

The Saints’ Web site calls Ruud “the most decorated pitcher in the team’s illustrious 17-year-history.” (more…)