Two Hammers Become Fielders
October 22, 2009 - Northern League (NL)
Joliet JackHammers News Release
The Northern League expansion draft was held today and two JackHammers have found a new home in Lake County with the Fielders. Pitcher Chad Blackwell and catcher Christian Lopez were taken in the draft and are now members of the Lake County Fielders. The JackHammers home opener is tentatively scheduled for May 28th vs. the new Northern League member - Lake County Fielders. The Fielders are owned in part by actor Kevin Costner.
The Northern League is expanding by two teams for the 2010 season, one team being the Fielders and the other the Rockford RiverHawks. Only the Lake County team participated in the draft in which 12 players where chosen from through out the league. "The dispersal draft is a great thing to get the Lake County Fielders off and running," says Field Manager Fran Riordan. "We feel we selected 12 players that have the ability to make an immediate impact on our ballclub."
Chad Blackwell worked out of the bullpen for the Hammers. He led the Northern League in appearance at 52. He had a 3-4 record with a 4.61 ERA, saved 4 games and stuck out 64 while only walking 24. Christian Lopez joined the team in August and played in 20 games behind the plate for the JackHammers. He finished with a .235 batting average with 1 home run and 5 RBI.
"Both of these players were young and talented and would have been an asset to our roster," stated new Field Manager Chad Parker. "We wish them the best of luck with the Fielders and thank them for what they did in Joliet."
Loose Gravel
Don't your last chances to visit the ballpark before the weather sets in. Saturday, October 24 is the Muster Call - USO Variety Show starting at 10:00 am and running until 2:00. It is free to the public and will include speeches, bands, comedians and more. On Wednesday, October 28th the JackHammers with have a "Hoe-Down Halloween". There will be trick-or-treating, games, crafts, food and a movie on the video board. The gates open at 6:00 pm and the event runs until 9:00pm.
Joliet JackHammers Season Tickets are on sale now. To secure your Season Seats at Silver Cross Field and take advantage of Early Bird pricing, contact the JackHammers Ticket Department at 815.726.BALL (2255).
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Northern League Stories from October 22, 2009
- RailCats Catching Duo Heads To Lake County In Dispersal Draft - Gary SouthShore Railcats
- Two Hammers Become Fielders - Joliet JackHammers
- Silver Cross Field to Host USO Variety Show - Joliet JackHammers
- Fielders Expansion Draft Completed - Lake County Fielders
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