AtL Lancaster Stormers

Walrond Signed by Toronto

Published on July 16, 2012 under Atlantic League (AtL)
Lancaster Stormers News Release


Les Walrond's contract has been purchased by the Toronto Blue Jays, it was announced today by the Lancaster Barnstormers.

The club's lefty relief specialist is headed to Class AA New Hampshire of the Eastern League with a strong possibility of a promotion to Class AAA Las Vegas in the near future.

Walrond, 35, was 3-1 with a 3.33 ERA for the Barnstormers in 21 appearances this season. In 24 1/3 innings, he allowed only 15 hits and nine earned runs while walking 11 and striking out 24. Left-handed batters were only batting .107 (3-28) against him on the season.

The Memphis, TN resident was in his second stint with the Barnstormers. He was 1-0 with a 1.38 ERA in nine appearances in 2011 before his contract was picked up by the Philadelphia Phillies in late May. He spent the remainder of the season between Class AA Reading and Class AAA Lehigh Valley and went a combined 4-2 with a 1.80 ERA.

He has reached the Major Leagues with three different clubs, getting there with the Royals in 2003, the Cubs in 2006 and the Phillies in 2008.

"(Les) is a really fine lefty specialist," said manager Butch Hobson. "Left-handed hitters have a hard time hitting him. Even right-handers can have problems with his breaking ball. Plus, he is a really great guy."

Walrond is the fifth member of the 2012 Barnstormers to be signed by a Major League organization.

The Lancaster Barnstormers are entering their eighth season as a member of the Atlantic League of Professional Baseball. Home games are played at Clipper Magazine Stadium in downtown Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Please call 717.509.HITS (4487) or visit LancasterBarnstormers.com for more information.

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Atlantic League Stories from July 16, 2012


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