WICHITA, KS- The Wichita Wingnuts, proud member of the American Association of Professional Baseball (AA), today added infielders Michael Thompson and Brandon McConnell.
A 26th round pick (794th overall) of the Houston Astros in the 2005 MLB Draft, Thompson played for the single-A Burlington Bees of the Midwest League last season. In 108 games, Thompson swatted 19 home runs and 54 RBI.
"Mike brings us a proto typical third baseman which is very difficult to find in independent ball. Any time you can sign a third baseman with power who hit 19 homers last year, was an All Star, and that can also bring solid defense it is a definite plus”, said Wingnuts Manager Kash Beauchamp. “Another interesting thing about Mike is his ability to pitch. He throws hard and has a great slider with a very confident mound presence, so he will be evaluated in spring training on the mound as well."
Thompson is a 6-4, 240-pound native of Grand Rapids, Michigan. Prior to turning pro, he played three seasons at Santa Clara University, where he knocked in 106 runs in 158 games. Over his short pro career, the 24-year-old Thompson has 26 home runs and 101 RBI in 230 games.
An eighth round pick 238th overall) of the Minnesota Twins in the 2003 Draft, McConnell played last season in the Arizona league, as well as for High Desert of the California League, where he made the transition from pitcher to infielder/outfielder. In 133 at-bats, McConnell hit .274, with an impressive .349 on-base percentage and a .434 slugging percentage.
“Brandon is a converted pitcher, who very easily could have signed as a hitter out of college”, said Beauchamp. “He will compete for the first base job and will be looked at in the outfield as well. I’m anxious to see his power potential.”
The Wingnuts now have 22 players under contract for the 2008 season. Wichita’s newest baseball team will begin their inaugural season of play on May 7th, when they host the Sioux City Explorers for a three-game set. For more information or to order tickets, please call our office at 264-GOAL or visit our website www.wichitawingnuts.com.
-WINGNUTS-
