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Pelicans Add Big Bat in Bautista

May 12, 2009 - American Association (AA)
Pensacola Pelicans News Release


The Pensacola Pelicans added another bat to their lineup today, signing Luis Bautista for the 2009 season. The 24 year old Bautista has a career batting average of .315 in his two seasons of professional ball.

Last year in Peoria, Bautista hit .313 with 13 home runs for the Chicago Cubs single-A affiliate. Hall of Famer (and former Cub) Ryne Sandberg coached Bautista as he tacked on 50 RBI in 89 games and recorded 25 doubles. Bautista credits Sandberg with helping him focus on the positive aspects of his game to continue to improve.

Pelicans Field Manager Talmadge "T" Nunnari is optimistic about Bautista's bat: "He's a proven hitter. He hit .313 with 13 homers last year. Numbers don't lie over a hundred games," Nunnari stated.

Baseball runs in Bautista's family. His brother, Jose, is currently hitting .328 with the Toronto Blue Jays who stand in first place of the American League East. Jose has been playing in the majors since 2004 and has hit 47 career home runs and 80 doubles in 483 career games.

With the acquisition of Bautista, the Pels roster now holds 22 players, including 11 pitchers, two catchers, six infielders, and three outfielders. The Pelicans released Noel Baca, Jody Finch, Donald Green, Osmany Masso, and Marcus Moore on Monday.

The Pelicans play at home in their season opener on Thursday. First pitch is scheduled for 6:35 p.m. against the Shreveport-Bossier Captains. Tickets can be purchased at Pensacola-area Circle K locations, or online at www.pensacolapelicans.com. For more information, contact the Pelicans by phone at (850) 934-8444.



American Association Stories from May 12, 2009


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