Edmonton Cracker Cat Closer Pete Sikaras Purchased by Philadelphia Phillies

October 14, 2008 - Golden Baseball League (GBL) News Release

(Dublin, CA. October 14, 2008) The Golden Baseball League (GBL) announced today that Edmonton Cracker Cats RHP Peter Sikaras has had his contract purchased by the Philadelphia Phillies of the Natonal League. The closer was named to the GBL All-Star team this season and set a new league record for Saves as he was instrumental in Edmonton winning the second half North Division championship and the franchises first playoff apperarance.

Sikaras, 29, 6-2, 220 lbs is a right-handed pitcher who began his professional career when he was drafted by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 13th ruund in the 2000 Amateur Draft out of the University of St. Francis in Illinois. Used always as a reliever, and mostly as a closer, he reached AAA with Arizona in five seasons in their system. In 2003 he was California League Relief Pitcher of the Year as he led the league in saves with 23. In 2004 he also was a member of the Greek Olympic Baseball Team at the Athens Olympics. Signed by the Tigers for 2006 he played at AA Erie before being released. The last two seasons he has been one of the premiere closers in independent baseball playing for Gary in the Northern League and Edmonton. This year he had a record of 2-3 with 19 saves while posting an E.R.A. of 3.65. Appearing in 33 games he pitched 37 innings and struck out 46 while walking only 12.

"Pete was outstanding all season for Edmonton and will do well in the Philadelphia farm system ," said GBL Commissioner Kevin Outcalt. "This is the second Edmonton pitcher in two weeks to be acquired by a major league organization and it's great to see the exposure to scouts the Canadian players are receiving as they play the other GBL teams in California and Arizona."

Sikaras is the 21st GBL player to be acquired by a major league organization in 2008.

Golden Baseball League Stories from October 14, 2008

• Edmonton Cracker Cat Closer Pete Sikaras Purchased by Philadelphia Phillies - GBL
• Los Angeles Angels Purchase Contract of GBL MVP OF Patrick Breen of the Orange County Flyers - GBL

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