Raul Padron Signed by Cleveland Indians
June 29, 2011 - Atlantic League (AtL)
Camden Riversharks News Release
The Riversharks announced today that Raul Padron has been signed by the Cleveland Indians and assigned to AA Akron Aeros. Padron's final at bat with the Riversharks was a game winning, walk off RBI Double. He was third in the Atlantic League and leading the team in batting average (.335), was leading the team in on base percentage (.385), and was tied for the team lead in home runs (7).
"I love that the [Riversharks] gave me an opportunity. Now I [got] signed and am going back to the minor league affiliates and my goal is to try as hard as I can to get to the Big Leagues" said Padron.
Throughout his minor league career, Padron has alternated between catcher and first base. His versatility is one of his strengths and he played both positions well. Over Padron's six year baseball career he has reached AAA level twice within the Oakland Athletics' organization. He has been with the Riversharks since 2010 when Cleveland was originally interested in him, but an ankle injury prevented him from play for a majority for the season.
"He didn't get discouraged, he worked hard, and found himself higher up in the order which impressed them and finally got him signed" said Von Hayes, Riversharks Manager.
Padron is the second Riversharks player to be picked up by a Major League Team in a week. Last Wednesday, first baseman Mike Lamb was signed by the Yankees.
"We are proud of our players and their recent accomplishments. It shows our fans that the Atlantic League is a serious professional baseball league, and it allows players an opportunity to play at a level that is recognized and rewarded" said Adam Lorber, General Manager of the Riversharks.
The Camden Riversharks are members of the independent Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. Since 2001, the Riversharks have hosted all of their home games at Campbell's Field, located along the city's waterfront. The 2011 season, the club's 11th, is presented by Wawa. The Riversharks will open a six game homestand Tuesday July 5, 2011 at 7:05 pm vs. the Lancaster Barnstormers. The team provides a competitive baseball product, while maintaining an affordable family friendly atmosphere. For more information or tickets, go to http://www.riversharks.com/ www.riversharks.com.
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