Barnstormers make first roster moves

June 6, 2006 - Atlantic League (AtL)
Lancaster Stormers News Release

After nearly six weeks with a static roster, the Lancaster Barnstormers have made their first changes of the season in a series of moves announced today.

Shortstop Jason Bowers was signed by the Baltimore Orioles and assigned to their Triple-A affiliate in Ottawa, Ontario. The Memphis, TN resident was batting .267 for the Barnstormers. He was tied for the club lead with four homers and had also collected 18 RBI. Bowers had played every inning but one on defense.

This marks the second consecutive season that a Lancaster shortstop has been signed to a Triple-A contract. Last year, Juan Melo was picked up by the Washington Nationals on May 29.

Infielder Kris Dufner has taken Bowers' place on the roster. A switch-hitter, Dufner was recently released from the Tampa Bay Devil Rays organization. He had been batting .175 on the season for the Single-A California League Visalia Oaks, but batted .304 there last season with seven homers and 48 RBI. The Philadelphia native becomes the second former Delaware Blue Hen on the Lancaster roster. The teammate of Barnstormers utility man Steve Van Note at the University of Delaware, signed in the 38th round of the 2003 June draft.

In addition, right-hander Joe Dooley has been re-signed. Dooley, a 25-year old native of Chantilly, VA, was one of three pitchers released by Lancaster toward the end of spring training. He was 8-5 with a 4.98 ERA for the Barnstormers in 2005.

To keep the pitching staff at 11, left-hander Steve Hassett was released. The first year professional was 0-0 with a 13.50 ERA in six appearances.

Atlantic League Stories from June 6, 2006

• Barnstormers continue roll, 10-4 - Lancaster Stormers
• Gannon tosses one-hitter in Bears loss - Newark Bears
• Patriots break up no-hit bid with grand slam to win 4-2 - Somerset Patriots
• Bears add Atlantic League veterans to roster - Newark Bears
• Barnstormers make first roster moves - Lancaster Stormers
• HIP Grand Slam Challenge Saturday - Long Island Ducks
• Queens native Modica signs with Long Island - Long Island Ducks

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