Pelicans Sell Ace To A's

Published on July 22, 2009 under American Association (AA)
Pensacola Pelicans News Release


The Pensacola Pelicans announced today that right-handed pitcher Kyle Middleton was sold to the Oakland Athletics. The 6'6" 29 year old Middleton will report to the triple-A Sacramento River Cats a day after representing Pensacola in the All Star game on Tuesday, July 21.

Middleton emerged as the strongest starting pitcher on the Pelicans' staff early in the season. Pelicans field manager Talmadge Nunnari was pleased with his pitcher's success: "He's earned this opportunity," Nunnari noted. "Several Major League clubs were looking at him. His numbers speak for themselves."

At the All Star break, Middleton led the league with a 1.75 ERA and 83 strikeouts. His 5-2 record was strong, and at one point during the first half, Middleton pitched 33 and one third consecutive innings without allowing an earned run.

The Pensacola-born Middleton joined the Pelicans in 2009 after pitching for the Houston Astros' triple-A affiliate last season. The Pelicans are not surprised that Middleton is returning to triple-A ball.

"We anticipated this move happening," Nunnari revealed. "Major League clubs were calling us and scouting our games. It gives good exposure to our club and the league, which has signed close to twenty players this year."

Middleton is the nineteenth player to be signed by a major league organization since the end of last season. The Pelicans saw infielder Jimmy Mojica picked up by the Seattle Mariners' double-A affiliate earlier this season. Along with the Middleton transaction, the Pelicans traded LHP Brent Solich to the River City Rascals of the Frontier League for outfielder Kevin Reynolds.

Reynolds joins the Pelicans from River City. He was hitting .275 with 11 doubles and three homeruns. The speedy outfielder also snagged 15 bases in 51 games this year. Formerly with the Mariners organization, Reynolds has spent two stints in AAA, batting .280 in Tacoma. Since he broke into pro ball in 2006, Reynolds is a .278 career hitter.

The Pelicans are currently off for the All Star break, but begin a seven-game road trip on Thursday in Sioux City. The Pelicans return home on July 31 to host the Fort Worth Cats. The Woodstock Weekend will be filled with grooviness for all, and all are assured a far-out time. Tie-dying and music from the era will cap off the themed home stand. Tickets are on sale now at Pensacola-area Circle K locations, or online at www.pensacolapelicans.com. Phone orders may be placed by calling (850) 934-8444.

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