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Former Major Leaguer Signed as Ace

April 3, 2003 - Canadian American League (Can-Am)
Bangor Lumberjacks News Release

Bangor, ME- The Bangor Lumberjacks have signed former major league pitcher Jeff Sparks to a contract for the 2003 season, the Northeast League club announced today. Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

The 30 year-old Sparks pitched for the Tampa Bay Devil Rays during the 1999 and 2000 season appearing in 23 major league games out of the Rays bullpen. He pitched 30.1 innings, going 0-1 with a 4.15 ERA, striking out 41 batters.

The right-hander was originally selected by the Cincinnati Reds in the 24th round of the 1995 draft, and last pitched as a member of the Albany (GA) Alligators of the All-American Association in 2001 where he went 8-2 with a 2.00 ERA in 14 games. Sparks struck out 136 in 85.2 innings pitched. Were signing Jeff as our #1 starter, and hes going to be looked upon to be the bell cow of the pitching staff. Replacing last years ace, Chad Ward was a difficult task, but I think we did it, stated Lumberjacks Manager Kash Beauchamp. Hes a power, strikeout pitcher, and he utilizes a great screwball to get guys out. Hes such a great competitor and he doesnt like to lose.

The Houston, TX native signed with the Milwaukee Brewers early in the 2002 season, but did not pitch for their organization electing to have Tommy John surgery.

The Lumberjacks open the 2003 campaign on the road against the Allentown (PA) Ambassadors on Thursday, May 22, but return to Bangor for the home opener on Friday, May 30 at 7 PM against the New Jersey Jackals at Mahaney Diamond. Please call 207-947-1900 for all ticket, promotional, and sponsorship information.

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