Munson Returns to Lancaster Pen; Barnstormers Sign Lakind
February 19, 2018 - Atlantic League (AtL)
Lancaster Stormers News Release
The Lancaster Barnstormers continue to fill their pitching staff for the 2018 season with the return of right-hander Kevin Munson and the addition of left-hander Jared Lakind, it was announced today by manager Ross Peeples.
With the signings, the Barnstormers now have 17 players on their roster for the upcoming campaign.
Munson, 29, will be with Lancaster for the third time. He was originally signed by Lancaster during the season in 2016, and, within a month, his contract was purchased by the Seattle Mariners. The right-hander from James Madison University returned to the Barnstormers last year and served as one of the stalwarts of the bullpen, posting a 2-3 record and 3.43 ERA over 59 appearances. He fanned 74 batters in 57 2/3 innings and was awarded 10 holds.
Prior to his time in Lancaster, Munson spent six seasons in the Arizona Diamondbacks organization, peaking at Class AAA Reno. His best season came in 2014, when he went 4-3 with two saves and a 2.60 ERA in 56 games for the Aces. He fanned 82 in 62.1 innings of work that year.
Over the course of his career, the man who grew up in Roanoke, Virginia, has struck out 493 batters in 403 2/3 innings of work in the minor leagues.
He also pitched for Licey in the Dominican Winter League this past off-season, appearing in 11 games.
"Kevin is a guy who seems to get better as the year goes along," said Peeples. "He can get you a ground out when you need one or a punch out when you need it. I am glad to have him back in the Barn this year."
Lakind, who will be 26 on Opening Day, signed with Pittsburgh as a first baseman in 2010. After three seasons at that position, he switched to the mound, working his way to Class AA Altoona by 2016. He had a strong year with the Curve in '16, going 5-1 with a 2.59 ERA and seven saves while working in 47 games. The southpaw from Cypress, TX yielded only 50 hits in 66 innings that season.
Last year, he opened the season with Altoona and was later acquired by the Miami Marlins organization.
"Lakind is a great competitor who should be able to help our bullpen," said Peeples. "I am told his work ethic is off the charts."
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Atlantic League Stories from February 19, 2018
- Somerset Patriots Re-Sign All-Star LHP Rick Teasley - Somerset Patriots
- Munson Returns to Lancaster Pen; Barnstormers Sign Lakind - Lancaster Stormers
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