TL1 Northwest Arkansas Naturals

Several Naturals Mentioned in 'Best Tools' Issue

Published on August 18, 2008 under Texas League (TL1)
Northwest Arkansas Naturals News Release


Four players from the Naturals have been noted by Baseball America as possessing the 'best tools' in the Texas League in various categories: Kila Kaaihue (Best Strike Zone Judgement), Ovandy Suero (Fastest Baserunner), Mario Lisson (Best Defensive Third Baseman), and Brian McFall (Best Outfield Arm). The feature is part of Baseball America's annual "Best Tools" survey featured in the publication's Aug. 25-Sept. 7 issue.

Each season, Baseball America surveys minor league managers to rank the top players in their respective leagues in a number of hitting, pitching and fielding categories. In all, the publication ranks 21 different categories.

Kaaihue, 24, who was promoted to Triple-A Omaha on July 29th, walked 80 times in 91 games while in a Naturals uniform, and fanned just 41 times. His on-base percentage of .463 led the Texas League at the time of his promotion.

Suero, 26, has stolen 41 bases in 56 attempts this season and on several occasions has successfully reached first on bunt singles. McFall, 24, has seven outfield assists in 154 put-outs over 84 games and has participated in two double-plays from his regular post in right field this season.

Lisson, 24, has an overall fielding percentage of .951 while playing 68 games this season at third base. He's second to Marc Maddox on the team in attempts and from his new shortstop position anchors a Naturals defense that has a fielding percentage of .979, tied for the best in the Texas League.

The Northwest Arkansas Naturals are the Double-A Texas League affiliate of the Kansas City Royals and play at state-of-the-art Arvest Ballpark, located in Springdale. The Naturals have a toll-free ticket hotline (1-877-444-2637) for fans to purchase Naturals tickets. Our website also offers fans the opportunity to purchase tickets online and avoid lines at the ticket windows by printing their tickets at home or at the office.

Check out the Northwest Arkansas Naturals Statistics

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Texas League Stories from August 18, 2008


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