Riversharks Sign Ex-Major Leaguers Jason Phillips, Dave Gassner
Published on April 4, 2008 under Atlantic League (AtL)
Camden Riversharks News Release
CAMDEN, NJ- The Camden Riversharks completed three deals this week that bring eight seasons of combined Major League experience to the club. First baseman-catcher Jason Phillips, lefthanded starter Dave Gassner and outfielder Chris Walker agreed to terms and will join the Riversharks in 2008.
Phillips, 31, has seven years of MLB service time, including stops with the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays. Although he has spent the majority of his career behind the plate, Phillips has manned first base part-time since 2003. He is expected to assume that role with the Riversharks. Last season, Phillips split time between the Blue Jays and the Albuquerque Isotopes, the triple-A affiliate of the Florida Marlins.
Gassner, 28, reached the majors in 2005 with the Minnesota Twins. He was originally drafted by the Blue Jays in 2001 out of Purdue University and was traded to Minnesota with Shannon Stewart for Bobby Kielty. Gassner holds a career 3.76 ERA in the Minors with a 59-46 record.
Walker, 27, has played in the Chicago Cubs organization for the past six seasons. He was originally a sixth-round draft pick out of Southern Georgia. Walker's speed has always been his top offensive asset. In 2004 and 2005, Walker consecutively stole 60 bases in Single-A. The next season, he added 50 at Double-A, and he has a career total of 235 since 2002.
"We couldn't be more pleased to add players of this caliber and experience level," David Keller, Riversharks Director of Baseball Operations, said. "Jason's age, versatility and experience are all elements that will help him achieve his goal of getting back to Major League Baseball. We believe Gassner can be a frontline starter, and Chris is a top-flight defensive centerfielder."
The Riversharks open the 2008 season on Friday, April 25th at 7:05 p.m., against the York Revolution. Individual and group tickets are on sale online at www.riversharks.com or by calling 1-866-SHARKS-9.
Atlantic League Stories from April 4, 2008
- Riversharks Fanfest this Sunday! - Camden Riversharks
- Riversharks Sign Ex-Major Leaguers Jason Phillips, Dave Gassner - Camden Riversharks
- Revolution On ESPN 2 - York Revolution
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