Wingnuts Sign Three More
February 24, 2009 - American Association (AA)
Wichita Wingnuts News Release
WICHITA, KS- The Wichita Wingnuts have announced three more signings, including the return of Amad Stephens, and the addition of right handed pitcher Gabe Medina and second baseman Dustin Smith.
Stephens, one of the top eighth inning setup men in the American Association last season, is expected to move into the closer's role for 2009. A former New York Yankees farm hand, Stephens posted a 1.87 ERA in 53.0 innings last season, while striking out 41. The San Diego, CA native proved durable with 18 of his 37 outings lasting more than one inning. Stephens started 2008 with the Lincoln Saltdogs before signing with the Wingnuts as a free agent and did not allow a hit in his first nine innings with Wichita.
Medina, another former Yankees prospect, is expected to join the Wingnuts' starting rotation. A local product, Medina played his college ball at Emporia State University, and resides in Emporia, KS. Medina has a career record of 5-3 with a 4.01 ERA in 56 appearances. In 139.0 career innings, Medina has struck out 123 batters while walking just 37. Drafted by New York in the 15th round in 2006, Medina spent three seasons in the Yankees' organization.
Smith, a true rookie from Chesnee, SC, finished his college career at Southern Wesleyan University last Spring. Smith hit .256 for the Warriors in 2008 and led the squad with 22 runs scored and 18 stolen bases. Smith is expected to compete for the Wingnuts' starting job at second base.
The three players join 2008 returnees Michael Thompson, Dustan Mohr, Richard Salazar, Brenan Herrera, Brad Davis, Steve Pearson, Blake Gailen, Doug Hurn, and Justin Young, as well as newcomers Derek Jennings, Zach Goldberg, Scott Daniels, Bill Duffy, and Jeff Reekers, giving the Wingnuts 17 players signed for 2009. American Association teams can carry up to 28 players through Spring Training, which will begin in early May.
The Wingnuts open their second season on May 14th when they host the Lincoln Saltdogs at Lawrence-Dumont Stadium. Season tickets and ticket packages are on sale now. Meanwhile, the Wichita Thunder hosts the Tulsa Oilers on Wednesday night at 7:05 p.m. at the Kansas Coliseum. Hot dogs are just $1.00 during the entire game. For more information, call the Wingnuts' and Thunder office at (316) 264-4625.
American Association Stories from February 24, 2009
- Cats Sign Miller, Sullivan - Fort Worth Cats
- X's Baseball...Catch the Excitement in 2009 - Sioux City Explorers
- Wingnuts Sign Three More - Wichita Wingnuts
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