LONG-TIME CORNBELTER DUDLEY CONTINUES CAREER IN ATLANTIC LEAGUE
October 19, 2017 - Frontier League (FL)
Normal CornBelters News Release
First Baseman Aaron Dudley joins the Somerset Patriots
The CornBelters have announced that long-time first baseman and slugger Aaron Dudley will continue his baseball career with the Somerset Patriots of the Atlantic League in 2018.
Dudley, a native of Toledo, signed as a free agent in June of 2010 with the MLB's Miami Marlins. After three and a half seasons in the Marlins farm system, Aaron was signed by the CornBelters for the 2013 Frontier League season.
After five seasons in Normal, Dudley will leave a legacy behind as he posted a career batting average of .317 with 54 home runs, 455 hits, 120 doubles, 290 RBIs, as well as five All-Star appearances.
"He is a sure bet Frontier League Hall of Famer," said CornBelters Field Manager Brooks Carey. "He will go down as one of the best hitters in league history. After five seasons, he became much more than just a guy who played for me."
In talking about his new opportunity, Aaron spoke fondly of his time in Normal and Field Manager Brooks Carey:
"First off, I'd like to thank Brooks for just watching one video of me playing in AA and then immediately signing me on the spot, and for everything he has done for me over the past four and a half years. My time in Normal has been amazing, granted the teams had their ups and down, but the community always supported us no matter what. I had a lot of individual achievements in which I would never have thought could be possible when I had first arrived in Normal, including being fortunate enough to be an all-star every year I was there. The memory I will never forget is winning the division for the first time in franchise history and being able to be a part of something special. I would also like to thank Lori Howerton, the best host mother I have ever had. She has one of the biggest hearts I've ever seen and is someone that will always be dear to my heart. My success in Normal has opened the door for me to continue my career with the Somerset Patriots of the Atlantic League. I would not be able to start this new chapter of my career without all of the people and fans involved with the Normal CornBelters, and for that, I am eternally grateful and beyond appreciative. Thank you for some of the best years of my professional career, I will never forget the time spent in Normal, Illinois."
"Dudley has left a lasting impression on everyone he has met," said CornBelters Vice President Mike Petrini. "He will be missed both on the field and in the locker room. We wish him the best of luck next season and for the years to come."
To learn more about the Somerset Patriots of the Atlantic League, visit www.somersetpatriots.com.
THE RETURN: BIG LEAGUE SCOUT SEATS
All-You-Can-Eat & Drink from Gates 'til 5th Inning
Back by popular demand, the Big League Scout Seats offer fans Premium Reserved Box Seats in the first two rows behind home plate along with access to an all-you-can-eat and drink service line from gates open through the fifth inning each game night.
"Our Big League Scout Seats were wildly popular in the past and we've had a lot of fans asking for their return," said CornBelters President Steve Malliet. "This is another big step toward our goal of developing new all-inclusive food and ticket packages for our fans in 2018."
The premium seats are available for purchase as a full-season pass (48 games) and will open for group reservations and individual games during the season (pending availability).
From gates open through the fifth inning each game night, Big League Scout ticket holders will be able to take advantage of an all-you-can-eat and drink service line located behind home plate on the main concourse. Fans will be able to enjoy a number of classic ballpark fare items along with a rotating specialty menu on select game nights. The main dish, sides, and snack options will be accompanied by a choice of water, soda, or a domestic draft beer.
2018 BASEBALL IN EDUCATION DAYS
May 8th & 9th at The Corn Crib in Normal
The CornBelters will be hosting two Baseball in Education Days in 2018: Tuesday, May 8th and Wednesday, May 9th .
The day of baseball fun and learning will include a baseball-themed educational packet for each student, offering lessons across a number of subjects (math, science, social studies, etc.). Each game day will also incorporate a number of community partners to create awareness about local programs and extended learning opportunities for kids.
Registration for the Baseball in Education Days is now available.
For tickets or to register, call the MICU Box Office at The Corn Crib at 309-454-2255 or email tickets@normalbaseball.com.
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Frontier League Stories from October 19, 2017
- CornBelters Partner with Zipwhip for Fan Text Service - Normal CornBelters
- 2018 CornBelters Schedule IS OUT - Normal CornBelters
- CornBelters Announce 2018 Schedule - Normal CornBelters
- LONG-TIME CORNBELTER DUDLEY CONTINUES CAREER IN ATLANTIC LEAGUE - Normal CornBelters
- Long-Time CornBelter Dudley Continues Career in Atlantic League - Normal CornBelters
- CornBelters Announce November Open Tryout in Florida - Normal CornBelters
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
