Three Northwoods League Alumni were involved in trades this week just prior to the MLB trade deadline highlighted by All-Star releiver George Sherrill. The Los Angeles Dodgers aquired Sherrill, who became the NWL’s first MLB All-Star in 2008, from the Baltimore Orioles to shore up their bullpen in the eighth and ninth innings. Sherrill spent the summers of 1997 and 1998 with the now defunct Kenosha Kroakers.

The Chicago Cubs acquired former 2002 St. Cloud River Bat Tom Gorzelanny from Pittsburgh. After Spring Training, Gorzelanny began the season at AAA. In May, he was recalled to pitch from the bullpen after injuries to the Pirates’ roster but was optioned back to AAA after several weeks with Pittsburgh. He comes to the Cubs along with John Grabow for Kevin Hart, José Ascanio, and minor league third baseman Josh Harrison. He was assigned to the Cubs AAA affiliate, the Iowa Cubs.

Aaron Pribanic, who played in Brainerd in 2006 and 2007, was part of a seven player deal Wednesday between the Seattle Mariners and Pittsurgh Pirates. The Mariners acquired shortstop Jack Wilson and pitcher Ian Snell from the Pirates for former No. 1 Draft choice Jeff Clement, shortstop Ronny Cedeno and Minor League right-handers Nathan Adcock, Brett Lorin and Aaron Pribanic. Pribanic was 7-6 with a 3.21 ERA in 17 games) with Clinton of the Class A Midwest League.