Jacks Sign Pitchers, Deal Infielder

Published on April 2, 2003 under Canadian American League (Can-Am)
Bangor Lumberjacks News Release


Bangor, ME- The Bangor Lumberjacks continued to reshape the club's roster today, the Northeast League team announced. The Jacks signed LHP Donnie Thomas and RHP Jerry Long to contracts for the 2003 season and dealt INF Garrett Larkin to the Nashua (NH) Pride of the Atlantic League for future considerations.

The Lumberjacks acquired Thomas off waivers from the Elmira (NY) Pioneers two months ago. Originally selected by the Houston Astros in the ninth round of the 1997 draft, the lefty pitched 36.1 innings out of the Pioneers' bullpen last year, striking out 22, while going 2-1 with a paltry 1.98 ERA.

"Donnie is a huge sign for us. He had a great ERA last year and we plan on using him as a setup or possibly a closer this season," stated Lumberjacks manager Kash Beauchamp. "He'll be looked at to hold and save leads, and we're thrilled to have him."

The 22 year-old Long is a rookie out of Cleveland State College, where he holds the school record for most strikeouts in a season and career. He will begin his first professional season with the Lumberjacks.

"Jerry is a kid who I feel got overlooked in the Major League draft and he deserves a chance to play pro ball, and we're going to give him that chance," said Beauchamp.

Larkin signed with the Lumberjacks prior to the 2002 season after taking the 2001 year off. The lefty hit .258 with 2 home runs and 28 RBI's in 88 games for the Jacks.

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.



Canadian American League Stories from April 2, 2003


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