Blasters Release Opening Day Roster
May 17, 2016 - American Association (AA)
Joplin Blasters News Release
The Joplin Blasters finalized their Opening Day roster on Tuesday, selecting the 23 players that will take the field on Thursday night. The initial roster contains 12 pitchers and 11 position players. American Association rules allow teams to carry 23 players on the active roster at any one time. Of the 23, 12 players spent time in Joplin during the Blasters' inaugural season.
The 12-man Blaster pitching staff is led by returning All-League selection Winston Abreu. Seven pitchers are returning to Joplin for a second season, including Abreu, Victor Capellan, Opening Day starter Josh Evans, Carlos Fuentes, Josue Montanez, Matt Parish, and Matt Swilley. Newcomers to the Blasters make up the other five pitchers: Tyler Herr, Josh Hodges, Jake Meiers, Patrick Mincey, and Jason Zgardowski.
Two catchers, five infielders, and four outfielders make up the position players on this season's Opening Day roster. The returning Juan Medina and newcomer Michael Pair will handle the Blasters' catching duties. In the infield, the team welcomes back Aaron Brill, Mitch Glasser, and Jake Taylor while adding rookie Will Soto and veteran Geraldo Valentin to the mix.
Joplin's Opening Day roster is rounded out by the four outfielders, three of which are new to the Blasters this season. Veteran Willie Cabrera, rookie Zack Burling, and Ronnie Richardson join 2015 Blaster Jesus Solorzano in the Joe Becker Stadium outfield.
The Blasters' Opening Day roster will take the field at Joe Becker Stadium on Thursday, May 19 against the Winnipeg Goldeyes.
The Joplin Blasters start their second season in the South Division of the American Association of Professional Baseball on May 19, 2016. They will play 50 of their 100 games at Joe Becker Stadium. For season tickets call (417) 622-4838 or visit the Blasters' offices Monday - Friday from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. located at 131 South High Avenue in Joplin, Missouri.
American Association Stories from May 17, 2016
- Goldeyes Finalize 2016 Roster - Winnipeg Goldeyes
- Blasters Release Opening Day Roster - Joplin Blasters
- RailCats Release Roster - Gary SouthShore Railcats
- Strong Spring Training Finish in Wichita - Winnipeg Goldeyes
- Saints Finish Exhibition Season with Alonzo Harris Walk-Off Three-Run Homer in 5-4 Win - St. Paul Saints
- Wingnuts Drop Exhibition Finale to Goldeyes - Wichita Wingnuts
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