Wingnuts Add Final Piece to Playoff Roster in Polanco
August 26, 2014 - American Association (AA)
Wichita Wingnuts News Release
WICHITA, KS (August 26, 2014) - Since top-line starting pitcher Jon Link had his contract purchased on Friday night, the Wichita Wingnuts have been scouring the market for someone to try and at least partially fill the shoes of the former Major Leaguer. On Tuesday, they officially added intimidating right-handed starter Celson Polanco from the Rio Grande Valley WhiteWings, where he recently finished off a championship-winning campaign as their go-to arm.
The soon-to-be 30-year old from El Limon in the Dominican Republic was fantastic this year for Rio Grande Valley after beginning the season with a small number of relief appearances for the Amarillo Sox. In 11 starts, he went 6-2 with an ERA of 2.12. He fanned 81 opposing hitters while issuing only 21 free passes. In the games at the start of the season pitching for the Wingnuts' South Division rival, Polanco gave up five runs in nine innings.
Since 2010, Polanco has played independent baseball for different teams, while taking the entire 2013 season away from baseball. He has played at least a part of a season in the Atlantic League, North American Baseball League, United League and the American Association.
Polanco began his professional career as an 18-year old in the Houston Astros Dominican Summer League Club. After two seasons there he was brought to the United States and played for Houston's Rookie League in Greeneville. After being released by the Astros in 2006, Polanco spent one year away from affiliated ball before being picked up by the Toronto Blue Jays.
With the Toronto, the talented pitcher broke into Double-A in 2009, but after pitching very well was slowed by a blood clot in his throwing arm. He contemplated retirement initially before changing his mind and working to get back into playing shape. After six months away from the sport, he returned to the hill in 2010, which led him to this stop in the journey.
Polanco is expected to start Tuesday's game and remain a member of the rotation for the remainder of the season. For information on season tickets, group outings, and party packages, call the Wingnuts' main office at (316) 264-NUTS, or visit the Wingnuts' official website at www.wichitawingnuts.com .
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