Duo of Rookie Pitchers In Mix For 2004
Published on February 20, 2004 under Northern League (NL)
Sioux Falls Canaries News Release
(SIOUX FALLS, SD) â The Sioux Falls Canaries welcome two newcomers, LHP Peter Blake and RHP Randy Strann, to the pitching crew. The hurlers join RHPs Wes Haust, Shayn Holbrook, Derek Lopez and Mike Lyons and LHPs David Mendez and Jess Turner on the Canaries roster for spring training.
Originally a fifth round draft pick of the Minnesota Twins in 1997, Blake has compiled a 4.25 ERA in 32 games at the minor league level. Stricken with injuries, the 24-year-old Indianola, Iowa native has been sidelined for the past two seasons. He spent the 2001 season with the Twins affiliate in the Gulf Coast League, posting a 3.52 ERA during six appearances, holding opposing players to a .208 batting average. Blake comes highly recommended by Tampa Bay Devil Rays scout Joe Murphy.
Blake's brother, Casey Blake, was the starting third baseman for the Cleveland Indians last season. Casey Blake has also seen action in the Majors in Minnesota, Baltimore and Toronto during his eight seasons in affiliated ball.
Strann will begin his first stint in professional baseball with the Canaries. Strann, who began his college career at Brookhaven Community College and then transferred to Richland Community College, set a league record for saves (12) while at RCC in 1998. He finished his collegiate career with the University of Kansas (Big 12 Conference), posting a 4.61 ERA and 1-0 record in six appearances during his senior season despite being injured for two months.
"Spring training will determine where these two pitchers will fit in," Canaries Manager Doc Edwards said. "They both have the potential to contribute to our club."
The Canaries kick off the 2004 season on May 20 at the Birdcage against the visiting St. Paul Saints. Great tickets packages are now on sale and can be ordered by calling (605) 333-0179.
Northern League Stories from February 20, 2004
- Duo of Rookie Pitchers In Mix For 2004 - Sioux Falls Canaries
- RailCats Sign Pitcher Chris Andel to 2004 Contract - Gary SouthShore Railcats
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