Sam Bates and Joe Lopez Join Chukars
June 30, 2012 - Pioneer League (PL)
Idaho Falls Chukars News Release
The Idaho Falls Chukars added two players to their roster Saturday, with former University of Arkansas first baseman Sam Bates and RHP Joe Lopez of the AZL Royals joining the team for today's game.
Bates was selected in the 28th round of the 2012 Draft out of Arkansas. The 6'5" 230 lefty hit .240 with six home runs and 25 RBI his senior year with the Razorbacks. The six long balls were tied for second on the team (just one behind the team high of seven), but came in more than 100 fewer at bats than the other team leaders. The 22-year-old attended Crowder Junior College in Neosho, MO for two seasons before transferring to Arkansas, finishing his sophomore year in 2010 with a .435 average along with 14 homers and 63 RBIs while being named a NCJAA All-American.
Lopez comes to Idaho Falls after starting the season with the Arizona League Royals. Lopez, who was a non-drafted free agent sign by Kansas City out of Arizona State, went 0-1 with a 15.00ERA over three appearances. The 5'10" 180 lbs reliever threw just 3 innings for the AZL Royals, allowing seven runs, five earned, on seven hits with four walks and three strikeouts. His 2012 senior season with the Sun Devils ended with Lopez earning a 2-0 record with a 6.00 ERA, throwing a total of 21 innings and allowing 16 runs, 14 earned, on 22 hits.
With the two new additions the Chukars roster now has a total of 30 players, including 15 pitchers and 8 infielders.
Pioneer League Stories from June 30, 2012
- Sam Bates and Joe Lopez Join Chukars - Idaho Falls Chukars
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