Major League Affiliates Sign Two More Roosters Players
Published on September 19, 2003 under Frontier League (FL)
Richmond Roosters News Release
John Cate, Director of Baseball Operations for the Richmond Roosters, announced this morning that two more Roosters pitchers had been signed by affiliated clubs. Chris Spigner, right handed starter, has been signed by the Boston Red Sox and the contract of Aaron Williams, right handed closer, was purchased by the Houston Astros. Earlier this month, the rights of Matt Schweitzer were purchased by the Kansas City Royals.
"This is very exciting" said Roosters President/CEO Rob Quigg. "I am pleased that the scouts in Major League Baseball recognize the talent that we had on our pitching staff this past season. Both Chris and Aaron were key contributors to a pitching staff that set the Frontier League record for the lowest season E.R.A. They definitely served as models to the thousands of young baseball players who came to our games that success is the result of hard work and determination. I am very excited for Chris and Aaron, as the Red Sox and the Astros are two excellent organizations. Both teams put a premium on talent development and I am proud that the members of Rooster Nation could contribute to the development of these two fine young pitchers."
Chris Spigner Aaron Williams
Spigner received the 2003 Brian Tollberg award as he was named the Frontier League Pitcher of the Year. Chris led the league in wins with his 11-4 record, setting a Roosters franchise record for wins in the process. With 134 strikeouts, he posted a 2.12 E.R.A. as he started a league record 20 games for the 2003 season. His season was accented by the league record tying 4 complete game shutouts. Chris was named to the Frontier League All-Star team, as well as the 2003 All League team as the starting pitcher.
"Chris had a career year" said Cate. "He put up great numbers, went deep into each game, always gave us a chance to win when he threw. You can't ask any more than that out of a starting pitcher. He had the total package this year. This tops it off for him. He helped us win a championship last year, was the Frontier League Pitcher of the Year for 2003, and now he has the opportunity to go with the Red Sox. We as an organization are extremely happy for him."
Williams was the workhorse out of the pen, making a league record 53 appearances as he accumulated his 1.95 E.R.A. Aaron struck out 75, walking only 16 on the way to his eleven saves. Williams was named to the 2003 Frontier League All-Star team as a relief pitcher.
Cate said of Aaron Williams, "Aaron just had a great year for us. He always wanted the baseball in the late innings and in any situation. He could throw everyday. I really believe his better days are ahead of him. I think he has a big league arm. He throws in the 90's on a consistent basis. I would not be surprised to see him climb the ladder in affiliated ball, if he is given the chance and in the right situation. I really believe he is that good."
Deanna Beaman, Vice President and General Manager said "Chris had a great year, setting a new franchise win record while leading the Roosters to a 50-39 season. I am glad he has been given the opportunity to take his game to the next level and wish him much success with the Red Sox."
She continued "Aaron was the finishing touch on the Roosters league leading pitching staff. You knew that he was ready for the challenge when he was handed the ball to close out the game. We are proud to have yet another Roosters pitcher be recognized for his accomplishments and have an opportunity to prove himself with the Astros."
Roosters pitching combined for a Frontier League record E.R.A. of 2.96 during the 2003 season. They also accumulated nine team shutouts.
Frontier League Stories from September 19, 2003
- Major League Affiliates Sign Two More Roosters Players - Richmond Roosters
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.
