Roster Spots are Going, Going...
Published on March 28, 2003 under American Association (AA)
Winnipeg Goldeyes News Release
One has been here for one season while the other has been here for one game. But big things are expected this year of the two players signed today by the Winnipeg Goldeyes.
Manager Hal Lanier announced today that outfielder Christian Franco and catcher Darrick Jones have been added to the roster. The pair bring the number of players under contract for 2003 to 18.
Splitting his second year of pro ball between third base and the outfield, Franco, 26, batted .281 in 69 games last season with seven home runs and 35 runs batted in. He was a key contributor in the playoffs, too, bating .277 with three home runs and six RBI as Winnipeg repeated as Central Conference champions.
"I think Christian has got a lot of ability," Lanier said. "He can hit the ball out of the ballpark, plus he's got good legs and can steal a base for you. He did a fine job for us wherever we put him."
Jones, 22, was an emergency signing last year after Detroit picked up Matt Oakes, leaving Ryan Robertson to handle the catching until Kory Doan returned. He appeared in one game, catching two perfect innings as the Goldeyes thumped Gary 11-1 on June 29.
"I was very impressed with the way he worked the pitchers," Lanier said. "We didn't have to call any pitches for him, so I think he might be a really good find for us."
Jones ended up as the all-star catcher in the Manitoba Senior Baseball League, batting .409 with three homers and 29 RBI for Baldur. He led the MSBL in triples, runs scored and RBI and was second in hits, doubles, and home runs.
The Goldeyes now have one catcher, three infielders, five outfielders and nine pitchers under contract. Training camp opens May 9.
American Association Stories from March 28, 2003
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- Roster Spots are Going, Going... - Winnipeg Goldeyes
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