IL1 Columbus Clippers

Clippers roster filling out

Published on January 26, 2005 under International League (IL1)
Columbus Clippers News Release


The New York Yankees announced that they have signed five more veterans to minor league contracts.

Infielder Russ Johnson is a native of Baton Rouge, LA and LSU. He has six years of major league experience with the Astros and the Devil Rays. Last season with the Iowa Cubs, Russ hit .296 with 38 doubles, 14 home runs and 78 RBI.

Damian Rolls (insert) has spent the last five seasons with the Devil Rays. The versatile Jayhawk native has played second, third and outfield for Tampa.

The Yankees signed a pair of right-handed relievers. Aaron Small is 15-10 in seven years with the Blue Jays, Marlins, A's and Diamondbacks. Marc Valdes to a minor league contract. The Dayton native was a first round draft choice of the Florida Marlins in 1993 amateur draft. The University of Florida alum rose quickly through the Marlins farm system, making his major league debut in 1995.

Valdes spent six years in the major leagues with the Marlins, Expos, Astros and Braves posting a 12-15 record with four saves in 144 games. Marc has spent the last three seasons playing in Japan where he was 5-7, with 24 saves in 109 contests.

Free agent Ryan Hankins agreed to a minor league contract with the New York Yankees. Hankins has spent the last seven seasons in the White Sox farm chain. Drafted in the 13th round of the 1997 draft, Ryan signed off of the University of Nevada campus. Originally a third baseman, the Sim Valley, California native worked steadily up the Chisox chain. He has also played second base and first base.

Last season, Hankins became Charlotte's regular catcher. He also saw action at the corners. In 89 games, Ryan hit .296 with 25 doubles, 3 triples, 7 home runs and 34 RBI. His slugging percentage was .468. Hankins is a 5-11 and 200 pound right-hander.

The Clippers' annual Winterfest Party is this Thursday, January 27th, at PromoWest Pavilion. Meet manager Bucky Dent and Co-Clipper of the Year Colter Bean. It's a great evening for "talkin' baseball", making freinds and testing your skills. Doors open at 6:30 PM.

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International League Stories from January 26, 2005


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