Mendoza Heads North
Published on December 19, 2005 under Northern League (NL)
Winnipeg Goldeyes News Release
One of the best catchers in independent baseball last year is now a member of the Winnipeg Goldeyes.
Goldeyes coach Steve Maddock announced today the signing of catcher Aaron Mendoza. The all-star backstop last season in the Central League, he was also named by Baseball America to its All-Independent Second Team.
"Aaron hits for average, he's got good power and, defensively, he's about as solid as it gets," Maddock said. "And he doesn't want any days off. He wants to be back there every night and that's the kind of guy you want."
Mendoza, 25, batted .310 last year with nine home runs and 54 runs batted in for San Angelo in just his second season of pro ball. He led all catchers with 31 runners caught stealing, 43 assists and 560 total chances as the Colts came within a game of a Central League title. One year previous, he helped the regular-season champion Edinburg Roadrunners to a Central League championship.
Mendoza joins infielder Daniel Quartararo as position players on the Goldeyes roster along with pitchers B.J. Litchfield, Bryan Dumesnil and Darwin Soto.
As the Goldeyes welcomed Mendoza, they said good-bye to catcher Matt Stocco, whose contract was sold to the San Diego Padres. He is the 42nd player picked up by a Major League club in Winnipeg's 12 seasons.
Northern League Stories from December 19, 2005
- Culp Sold To Oakland - Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks
- RailCats Sell Risinger's Contract to Padres - Gary SouthShore Railcats
- Mendoza Heads North - Winnipeg Goldeyes
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