X's Sign Players Acquired in December Trade
February 9, 2006 - American Association (AA)
Sioux City Explorers News Release
The Sioux City Explorers announced today that rookie infielder Julius Thames and rookie LHP Mike Nunes have signed American Association contracts for the 2006 season. Both were acquired in a three team December 12th trade in which they came from Reno of the Golden Baseball League. Joliet, the third team in the trade, will received the rights to infielder Todd West while Reno is receiving future considerations from Joliet.
"I'm excited to see what these guys have to offer," comments manager Ed Nottle. "Both were solid last year in the Golden League so we'll see how they transition into the American Association."
Thames played with Mesa of the Golden League in his first season in pro baseball. With Mesa, he hit .363 while appearing in 53 games and providing solid defense at second base. Julius played his college ball at Kennesaw State and led the team in batting average his senior season. Thames is expected to contend for the starting job at 2nd base for the X's this season.
Nunes also played with Thames in Mesa during the 2005 season. His primary role was as a relief pitcher, but he did make two spot starts during the season. As a reliever, Mike was 2-0 with a 3.51 earned run average. Opposing hitters were held to a .228 batting average. Nunes will provide valuable depth to the Explorers bullpen this upcoming season.
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- X's Sign Players Acquired in December Trade - Sioux City Explorers
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