Cruz Signed by Orioles

January 4, 2012 - American Association (AA)
Amarillo ThunderHeads News Release


AMARILLO, TX - The Amarillo Sox announced today the contract of Sox outfielder and 2011 American Association MVP Lee Cruz has been purchased by the Baltimore Orioles.

Cruz joins Cyle Hankerd, Cody Evans and Harrison Kain as 2011 Sox players to be purchased by a Major League organization.

The 28 year-old was originally drafted in the 10th round of the 2006 draft by the Chicago White Sox. The right-handed St. Louis, Missouri-native joined Amarillo in the off-season after a 2010 stint with Yuma in the Golden League following his release from the Chicago farm system.

Cruz had a stellar 2011 with Amarillo, leading the team in batting average (.324), home runs (18), RBI (94), hits (144) and doubles (38). Cruz's doubles and hits totals rank second all-time in Amarillo independent baseball history.

He was named the Batter of the Week in the American Association by Pointstreak, the official league statistician, for the first week of the season on May 22. Additionally, he was named American Association Player of the Year at the season's end as well as being named to the All-Star team as the designated hitter.

Cruz will be take part in Orioles spring training and will be assigned following its completion.

Season tickets are currently on sale and are available for purchase in-person by visiting the Sox Front Offices at 801 S. Polk or over the phone by calling (806) 242-4653. For more information on tickets, game times and schedules, promotions, marketing opportunities, and everything else Sox, visit the "Official Website of the Amarillo Sox" at www.amarillosox.com.



American Association Stories from January 4, 2012


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