AA St. Paul Saints

Saints Re-sign One of Their Aces and Closer

Published on April 7, 2008 under American Association (AA)
St. Paul Saints News Release


ST. PAUL, MN (April 7, 2008) - Saints manager George Tsamis may be signing a lot of pitchers during the off-season, but they are all quality hurlers. On Monday he re-signed one of his aces from 2007, Justin Lord and closer Tony Pierce.

The 28-year-old Lord was solid last season after spending the first two months on the disabled list. He was 4-4 with a 4.24 ERA and one complete game in 11 games, all starts. In 60.0 innings pitched he walked just nine and struck out 42 while the opposition hit .295 against him. This season will be his third with the Saints. He also pitched for them in 2006 when he was 11-3 with a 4.20 ERA and one complete game shutout, in 19 games, all starts. In 120.0 innings he walked just 20 and struck out 55 while the opposition hit .276 against him. He was third in the American Association in wins, fourth in shutouts and games started.

"Justin has been a big game pitcher for us," said Tsamis. "He missed a good chunk of the season last year, but down the stretch he pitched well in some big games for us."

The 31-year-old Pierce was among the best closers in the league last season. With the Saints he was 4-2 with a 3.10 ERA and 12 saves in 37 appearances. In 40.2 innings pitched he walked 21 and struck out 57 while the opposition hit a paltry .201 against him. He was second in the American Association in games finished with 34.

"Tony is as good as they come late in games," said Tsamis. "We were not sure if we were going to get him back, but we are excited he will be back to strengthen the back of our bullpen.

The Saints have officially signed 13 players, nine pitchers and four position players. They can carry a maximum of 22 players on their roster during the regular season.

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American Association Stories from April 7, 2008


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