Schwartz, a Rosemount, Minn. native, is in his sophomore season with the Mavericks. After a solid freshman year in which he posted a 4-1 record with a 4.29 ERA in 12 games, Schwartz has seen all of his numbers improve in his second year with Minnesota State.

“We are excited with this addition, Blake is a tall hard throwing pitcher that can start for us or come in as a reliever,” MoonDogs General Manager Kyle Mrozek said. “He came highly recommended and we have a great relationship with Coach Magers and Minnesota State.”

In seven starts, Schwartz is 6-0 with a 3.25 ERA. He has thrown the third-most innings for the Mavericks (44.1) and has struck out 28 while only allowing eight walks all season.

Clint Dempster, a Thibodaux, La. native, is in his first year with Nicholls State after spending two seasons at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.

In 2009, Dempster was the NJCAA Division II strikeout leader with 113, and had a 1.84 ERA. He was drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 32nd round of the 2009 Major League Baseball Draft before deciding to attend Nicholls State.

“Clint will be a key starter in our rotation. He is a seasoned junior who can provide leadership this season,” Mrozek said. “He has the potential to strike out a lot of hitters which he has shown through out his college career at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and Nicholls State.”

Dempster currently leads the Colonels in innings pitched (43.2), ERA (3.50) and strikeouts (54) this season. In seven starts, he has a record of 3-3, and has allowed less than one hit per inning pitched.

The MoonDogs home opener is scheduled for Wednesday, June 2 at 7:05 p.m. against the Rochester Honkers. Season tickets are now on sale at the new MoonDogs office located 1221 Caledonia Street, while single game tickets will go on sale in early May. For more information visit the MoonDogs website at www.mankatomoondogs.com or call the MoonDogs office at 507-625-7047.