'Pels Re-Sign Byron Batson

Published on April 14, 2005 under Central Baseball League (Central League)
Pensacola Pelicans News Release


Pensacola, FL - The Pensacola Pelicans announced today they have signed ace right handed pitcher Byron Batson for the 2005 season.

Batson, the Central Baseball League Rawlings Player of the Month in July of 2004, re-joins the Pelicans after playing with the Bridgeport Bluefish of the Atlantic League. Batson was traded to Bridgeport after the Pelicans' 2004 championship campaign in hopes of winning two championships in one season.

For the Pelicans last year, Batson sported an impressive record of eight wins, three losses and two saves. His 3.01 ERA in 108 innings pitched was good enough for 6th best in the league. He gave up only five homeruns, struck-out 71 and walked 23. Opposing hitters managed to bat only .255 against the righty.

Batson started the season in the bullpen but quickly earned a spot in the starting rotation as one of Pensacola's aces down the stretch. He came on strong in the second half of the season in July where he went 5-1 with a 2.25 ERA. In 40 innings of work, he struck out 24 batters and walked eight. It was because of these accomplishments, Batson was awarded the CBL Player of the Month.

"Byron ended up being a huge asset to the club last year," said Pelicans General Manager George Stavrenos. "He became our go-to guy down the stretch and he performed."

During one stretch, Batson won six of seven consecutive starts and only gave up more than two earned runs in a start twice.

Native of Winnabow, NC, Batson was originally selected by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 42nd round of the 2000 draft. He has since played in the independent Northern and Atlantic Leagues prior to helping the Pelicans win the 2004 CBL 2nd Half Championship.

2005 Pelicans Season Tickets are on sale. Reserve your seats today to see the many exciting events happening at Pelican Park this summer. Call the Pelicans office today at 934-8444 to order your 2005 Season Tickets.

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Central Baseball League Stories from April 14, 2005


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