Boulder Begins Journey to Big Leagues
June 26, 2013 - Canadian American League (Can-Am)
New York Boulders News Release
Ramapo, NY - The Rockland Boulders of the CanAm League have announced that outfielder Chris Edmondson's rights have been purchased by the Atlanta Braves. Edmondson, who was drafted in 2010 by the St. Louis Cardinals, has been assigned to the Rome Braves of the South Atlantic League, Atlanta's single A affiliate. He becomes the first player in Boulders franchise history to have his contract purchased by a Major League organization.
After spending three seasons in the Cardinals organization, Edmondson joined the Boulders this season and made an immediate impact, as he stands tied for the league lead in home runs with eight, leads the circuit in RBI with 35, and is second overall with a .413 batting average.
This season presented a unique opportunity for Chris, as he joined brother Jerod on the Rockland roster, under the guidance of first-year manager Jamie Keefe. Jerod, four years his brother's senior at age 29, is in his seventh season in the CanAm League and also doubles as the Boulders' hitting coach, with his younger sibling acknowledging his influence. "It was fun because we've never played on the same team before," Chris acknowledged. "(Jerod) has seen a lot more and been around a lot more and he's been a big help."
Clearly the feeling was mutual, as Jerod beamed about the experience. "It was awesome for me. We've always been just far enough apart in age that we never got to play together. When he got released (by the Cardinals) and I talked to him and he decided to play here it was probably one of the most exciting things for me. I couldn't have been more proud to see him play that way. As a brother and a coach I couldn't wish him anything better."
Of course, the transaction is a bittersweet one for the Boulders, who are seeing their first player advance to affiliated ball but also losing their cleanup hitter while in the midst of a battle for first place in the league. Still, manager Jamie Keefe remains upbeat. "This is why we do this job," the skipper noted. "There's nothing better than taking a player off the field in batting practice and telling him a team wants to buy his contract. As far as the clubhouse, obviously you can't be any happier for a teammate. We want to win ballgames but we also want to get guys to the next level and we're very happy that Chris is the guy that's representing us."
Keefe also assures Boulders fans that the team's commitment to success remains unchanged. "This is the level of player we want to have at every position. It would be great for our fans to follow and support Chris as a former Boulder, but we're always looking to bring the next Chris Edmondson to our own team."
Team President Ken Lehner also noted the mixed emotions surrounding Edmondson's departure. "We are thrilled for Chris as this is what independent baseball is all about, as players are given second chances and alternative paths to affiliated baseball and hopefully one day the Major Leagues," Lehner said. "Granted we are going to miss Chris in our lineup, but we are still focused on making the playoffs under the managerial leadership of Jamie Keefe and the deep roster we are fortunate to have this season."
As he begins what is hopefully a long trip though the professional ranks toward the majors, Chris reflects positively on his time in Rockland. "My time with the Boulders was great," he stated. "I was treated very well here and Jamie has been great to me since I was brought in." Echoing the theme of the day, Chris was understandably excited about the opportunity to play in the Braves organization, summing up that "this is why guys play independent ball."
The Boulders dropped their first contest without Chris Edmondson in the lineup in New Jersey on Tuesday, with the Jackals taking a 5-2 win. Rockland is now 22-15 on the season and in second place, one game behind the Quebec Capitales and two ahead of third-place New Jersey. The top two finishers in the standings play for the league championship.
Canadian American League Stories from June 26, 2013
- Can-Am League Recaps - Can-Am
- Can-Am Roundup - June 26, 2013 - Can-Am
- Adam Hamari Makes MLB Umpiring Debut - Can-Am
- Boulder Begins Journey to Big Leagues - New York Boulders
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.
