Wingnuts Sign Rookie Backstops

WICHITA, KS- The Wichita Wingnuts announced two new player additions on Wednesday, signing rookie catchers Jeff Giacomini and Kent Wright.

Giacomini finished his college career at Sacramento State University in 2007, appearing in 12 games for the Hornets.  The native of Ukiah, CA was also a junior college teammate of returning Wingnuts Steve Pearson and Patrick Brooks at Santa Rosa Junior College, where the trio helped the Bear Cubs to a 2005 California State championship.

"Jeff is a guy with a prototypical catchers body", said Wingnuts' Manager Kevin Hooper.  "He has broad shoulders with a good frame and a plus arm.  He flew in to tryout and we signed him on the spot.  Offensively, Jeff will only get better and better with experience.  He is hungry to learn and is excited to have a chance to win a spot on our ballclub."

Wright, a switch-hitting backstop, played college baseball at West Texas A&M University, hitting .269 in 30 games as a senior in 2008.  He then joined the Buffaloes coaching staff as a graduate assistant in 2009 after attending training camp with the Fort Worth Cats.  A native of Yakima, WA, Wright played two seasons at Walla Walla Junior College before transferring to West Texas A&M in 2007.

"Kent is a baseball guy, always wanting to learn and be around the game to contribute any way he can.  He is smart, which is a must at the catcher position.   Kent being a switch hitter is a big plus for him offensively.  He is one of the hardest workers you will be around, improving on his game anyway he can day in and day out."

Giacomini and Wright join Chris Colton as players under contract for the 2010 season.  Several more player annoucements are expected soon.

The Wingnuts open the 2010 season on May 13th at St. Paul.  The 2010 home opener is scheduled for Tuesday, May 18th versus Sioux Falls at 7:05 p.m.  Season ticket and group packages are on sale now.  For more information, call the Wingnuts at (316) 264-NUTS.

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