AA St. Paul Saints

Saints Sign a Pair of All-Star Pitchers

Published on January 29, 2007 under American Association (AA)
St. Paul Saints News Release


ST. PAUL, MN - The St. Paul Saints today announced that they have re-signed right-handed pitcher Justin Lord and added right-handed pitcher John Howerton for the 2007 season. Both were members of the American Association All-Star Team in 2006.

Lord, who missed the 2005 season due to injury, won his first seven decisions for St. Paul in 2006 and finished the season with an 11-3 record and a 4.20 ERA. His 11 victories were tied for third-most in the league.

"Justin did a terrific job for us last year," said Saints manager George Tsamis. "He knows how to pitch and he was great in the playoffs. He's a guy you definitely want out there in a big game."

A former Florida State Seminole, Lord, 27, helped Florida State get within one game of the 2001 College World Series, recording 11 saves during the season. His wife, Amy, serves as associate director of athletic academic support for the University.

Originally signed as a free agent by the Kansas City Royals in June 2001, Lord later spent two seasons in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization before arriving in St. Paul.

Howerton was signed by the Saints after spending parts of two seasons with fellow American Association member Sioux City.

In 36 relief appearances for the Explorers in 2006, Howerton compiled a 6-3 record and a 4.18 ERA. He began the season on fire, allowing just one run in 13 2/3 innings of work (0.66 ERA) during the month of May.

"John was tough on us last year," Tsamis said. "Our hitters didn't like facing him. He comes at you from a different angle and can get you that groundball when you need it."

This will be Howerton's fourth season in independent baseball. The 26 year-old graduate of Clarke College (IA) began his career in the Northern League, making stops in Kansas City and Schaumberg. He impressed the Saints coaching staff last season, recording a pair of victories against St. Paul.

The Saints open the 2007 season May 10 in St. Joseph, MO. The home opener is scheduled for Monday, May 14 at Midway Stadium against Howerton's former team, the Sioux City Explorers.

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American Association Stories from January 29, 2007


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