X's Land Big Bat in Sanchez
May 3, 2012 - American Association (AA)
Sioux City Explorers News Release
SIOUX CITY, IA - With the first day of spring training hours away, the Sioux City Explorers have locked in thier last addition on the 2012 spring training roster. Today, the X's announced the signing of 1B Kris Sanchez. The 2012 season will mark Sanchez's sixth season in professional baseball.
Signed as an undrafted free agent in 2007 by the Seattle Mariners, Sanchez spent three years in the Mariners organization, playing as high as A-ball with the Clinton LumberKings of the Midwest League. In 2009 with the LumberKings, the 28-year-old hit .291 with 20 doubles, one triple and 10 home runs in 254 at-bats.
Collectively over three seasons in the Mariners system, Sanchez produced at the plate. In 165 games, the Cambridge, OH native hit .284 with 153 hits, 40 doubles and 22 home runs, while driving in 93 runs. Not only was the first baseman a threat at the plate, he was strong defensively as well. In 106 games at first base, Sanchez had only four miscues in his three seasons with the Mariners.
The last two seasons Sanchez has played in the Can-Am League, an independent professional baseball league similar to the American Association. In 2010 with the Sussex Skyhawks, the 6'3" power-hitter, hit .281 with 99 hits, 21 doubles and 19 home runs while producing 74 runs. The following year Sanchez produced similar numbers with the New Jersey Jackals. In 85 games, he hit .261 with 80 hits, 22 doubles and 14 home runs. Over the two years, nearly 50-percent of Sanchez's hits were for extra bases.
"Kris brings a big bat to the middle of our line-up, while providing us with a solid defensive first baseman," mentioned X's Field Manager, Stan Cliburn. "He is a great addition with his ability to drive in runs."
The X's lineup could pose a headache to opposing teams this year with four left-handed hitters (Sanchez, Wally Backman, Jr., Lyle Allen and Brandon Newton) on the roster. Backman, Jr. was the only left-handed bat in 2011.
The X's 2012 Home Opener will be Saturday, May 19th versus the Sioux Falls Fighting Pheasants in a 7:05pm contest. It's Magnet Schedule Giveaway presented by Great Southern Bank with post-game fireworks by Lantis Fireworks. In addition, the first 500 fans will receive 20th Anniversary Rally Towels. Individual game tickets, as well as group and season tickets are on sale now. Call 277-WINS or stop down to the X's Box Office to set yours today!
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