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PL Missoula PaddleHeads

Ryal is 26th former Osprey to play in major leagues

August 11, 2009 - Pioneer League (PL)
Missoula PaddleHeads News Release


MISSOULA, MT - Rusty Ryal did not waste any time in getting his feet wet on his first day as a Major League Baseball player.

The 2005 alumnus of the Missoula Osprey had a pinch-hit single in the bottom of the eighth inning, as the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the New York Mets, 7-4, at Chase Field on Monday.

Ryal had his contract purchased by the D-Backs from Triple-A Reno, as the utility player was named to take the spot of outfielder Chris Young on the team's 25-man roster. He becomes the 26th former Osprey player to play in the major leagues, and the seventh to make his debut this season.

Ryal had a solid season at Reno, his first at the Triple-A level. Ryal hit .290 with the Aces, with 33 doubles, six triples, 17 home runs and 70 RBIs, setting career-high marks in doubles, homers and RBIs. Ryal played at first base, second base, shortstop and third base as well as the outfield for Reno, which makes him a viable fit for the D-Backs.

Ryal has steadily made an impression on the D-Backs' organization. After his time in Missoula, Ryal worked his way up through the system, and spent all of 2008 at Double-A Mobile. Following the 2008 season, Ryal played in the prestigious Arizona Fall League, and following a strong performance in Spring Training, was placed at Reno to begin the 2009 season.

A career .287 hitter entering the 2009 season, Ryal hit .333 in 72 games for the Osprey in 2005, with 22 doubles, four triples, six home runs, 46 RBIs and 11 stolen bases.

Tickets for any remaining Osprey home game this season can be obtained by calling the Osprey at (406) 543-3300, stopping by the Osprey Team Store at 412 W. Alder, or ordering online at www.missoulaosprey.com.

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