Dukes Add Local Flavor

Published on April 24, 2002 under Northern League (NL)
Duluth-Superior Dukes News Release


(Duluth, MN) Duluth-Superior Dukes' Field Manager, Al Gallagher, announced the addition of two more local players to the roster. Former St. Scholastica shortstop, Leland Swenson and former University of Wisconsin-Superior right-handed reliever, Chris Vendela, both signed contracts with the club today.

Swenson, a 24 year-old Saginaw native and 2000 graduate of the College of St. Scholastica, was a two-time All-American and became one of the nation's top defensive collegiate shortstops, committing only 5 errors in 249 total chances his senior season.

Swenson made St. Scholastica history by becoming the first graduate to sign a Major League contract when he signed as a non-drafted free agent with the Texas Rangers on June 14, 2000. He hit .257 with 5 RBI and 4 stolen bases in 28 games that season with the Rangers' Gulf Coast team. The following season, Swenson hit .175 and drove in 12 RBI in 120 AB for the Charlotte Rangers of the Florida State League.

"Somewhere between a great senior season at St. Scholastica and playing for the Texas Rangers, he lost some confidence in his ability to perform," said Gallagher. "We feel he will regain confidence with the Dukes and go on to bigger and better things in professional baseball."

Vendela, 23, returns to the Dukes for his sophomore season. The Superior native split time with the Dukes (3.63 ERA in 13 appearances) and the Winnipeg Goldeyes (1-2 with a 3.93 ERA in 11 games).

"I made a dedication to the community to not lose any local players that are able to play in the Northern League, like Vendela," stated Gallagher. "In the past, local players were brushed aside and as long as I am here, that will never happen."

With the addition of Swenson and Vendela, the Dukes have signed a total of six local players, including Joe Wicklund (Solon Springs), Chris LePine (Milwaukee), Aaron Runk (Stillwater), and Tom Masterman (St. Paul). The entire Dukes roster will report to spring training on May 11th.

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Northern League Stories from April 24, 2002


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