Venerable Vet Alen Returns for Seventh Season
February 25, 2015 - American Association (AA)
Winnipeg Goldeyes News Release
Winnipeg Goldeyes manager Rick Forney announced today the signing of veteran catcher Luis Alen to a contract for the 2015 season.
Alen, 29, is returning to Winnipeg for a seventh season, which extends his run as the longest-serving catcher in team history. Last season, the Venezuelan hit .289 with six home runs and 50 RBI in 96 games with the Goldeyes. He struck out just 16 times in 393 plate appearances.
"He's an important cog to what we do on the field," Forney said. "He's one of the finest offensive and defensive catchers that you will see in independent baseball. He's coming off another really strong season. He has a knack for driving in some important runs and he does a great job every year of handling the pitching staff."
Alen's .311 batting average is good for fourth all-time amongst Goldeyes players that have at least 750 at-bats. He's in second place in several other team record categories. Of note, Alen needs nine RBI to pass Harry Berrios for the club all-time record in that category.
On Opening Day in Grand Prairie on May 21, Alen will become just the third player in team history to suit up for the Goldeyes in seven seasons. Infielder Max Poulin and pitcher Donnie Smith each played eight seasons for the Goldeyes.
Alen was a farmhand for the Florida Marlins from 2003-2005 after signing with Florida as a free agent. He played the 2006 season in Italy before coming to Winnipeg for the 2007 campaign. He then played in the New York Mets system for two seasons before re-joining the Goldeyes in 2010.
The Goldeyes now have 15 players signed for the 2015 season, including eight pitchers and seven position players.
Season tickets and 9-Game Mini Packs for the 2015 season are now on sale. Fans can visit Goldeyes.com or call 982-BASE (2273) for more information.
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American Association Stories from February 25, 2015
- Venerable Vet Alen Returns for Seventh Season - Winnipeg Goldeyes
- Saints Feel the Need for Speed with Signing of Outfielder Alonzo Harris - St. Paul Saints
- Penprase Back for 8th Season with RedHawks - Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks
- Brock Kjeldgaard Returns for 2015 Season - Sioux City Explorers
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