Ducks Ink Three
Published on March 7, 2011 under Atlantic League (AtL)
Long Island Ducks News Release
(Central Islip, N.Y., March 7, 2011) - Long Island Ducks team officials today announced the signings of catcher Tom Pennino, pitcher Joselo Diaz and outfielder Lew Ford for the 2011 season. The signings bring the Ducks roster to a total of 14 players.
"We are happy to add these three players to our team this season," says Ducks manager Kevin Baez. "All three know what it takes to win in this league and we're happy they're joining us."
Ford was a member of the Ducks in 2009 when he posted 10 home runs, two triples, and 55 RBI in 93 games. The Texas native finished second in the league in batting average (.330) and fourth in on-base percentage (.407). His efforts earned him a contract with the Cincinnati Reds organization. The former big leaguer also reached base in 40 consecutive contests, while riding a 13-game hitting streak. The 34-year old spent last season with Oaxaca of the Mexican League and posted a .314 batting average along with five homers and 25 RBI in 39 games. Ford played five seasons with the Minnesota Twins from 2003-2007 and owns a career .272 average with 32 home runs, 80 doubles, 10 triples, and 47 stolen bases in the big leagues. He was originally drafted by the Boston Red Sox in the 1999 MLB Amateur Draft.
Diaz returns for his second season with the Flock after posting a 5-2 record with a 2.52 ERA in 13 games in 2010. The right-hander also reached the Majors in 2006 as a member of the Kansas City Royals where he appeared in 4 games. The Dominican Republic native has played in nine seasons of professional baseball. Aside from the Rangers, Mets, and Royals, he has also played in the Dodgers, Devil Rays, and Indians organization. The 30-year-old's best season came in 2002 with Single-A South Georgia of the South Atlantic League. He posted a 3-1 record along with a 4.21 ERA in 19 games. Diaz was originally signed as an undrafted free agent by the Dodgers in 1996.
Pennino enters his 5th season of professional baseball and second with the Ducks. Last season, he combined to hit .243 with six home runs and 32 RBI with three Atlantic League teams (Long Island, Bridgeport and Newark). The 26-year-old made his professional baseball debut in 2006 with the Evansville Otters of the Frontier League. He accumulated 7 home runs, 60 RBI and 20 doubles in three seasons and racked up an impressive 40% caught stealing percentage in 175 games behind the plate.
The Long Island Ducks are entering their 12th season of play in the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. Opening Day is May 6. For season ticket or advertising information, visit www.liducks.com or call 631-940-DUCK.
Atlantic League Stories from March 7, 2011
- Ducks Ink Three - Long Island Ducks
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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.
