The “2009 Northwoods League Media Guide and Record Book” is now on sale.

Eau Claire Express field manager Dale Varsho announced the first three commitments for his 2009 roster. They include returning shortstop/pitcher Ryan O’Sullivan and new catchers Rafael Neda and Aaron Fujiki.

Indiana University sophomore first-baseman Jerrud Sabourin joins 23 new Mallards set to entertain the “Duck Pond” faithful beginning June 1.

The Waterloo Bucks inducted three new members into to the Bucks Baseball Hall of Fame last month at their fourth annual banquet. The former Bucks inducted were Bartt Carney, Ryan Gripp, and Jim Magrane. Along with the players, Greg and Nancy Wolf were be honored for their 10 years of service as housing parent

NWL 2008 All-Star, offensive centerpiece and three-year Beetle-to-be Keith Castillo has committed for the 2009 Alexandria Beetles season. Castillo was among the team leaders in nearly every offensive category in 2008.

The La Crosse Loggers continue to build for the upcoming 2009 season as team officials announced the signings of a pair of pitchers from the University of Tennessee. Right-hander Clayton Gant and southpaw Stephen Gruver will dawn the Logger green after their spring season in the SEC is complete.

Illinois junior shortstop Brandon Wikoff [pictured left] headlines the list of returning Madison Mallards players for the 2009 season.

The Waterloo Bucks announced the hiring of Mike Schultz to serve as pitching coach for the 2009 season. Schultz will be new to Waterloo's staff in '09.

The familiar voice of John Pappadapoulos will continue to reach the homes of Logger fans in 2009. Team officials announced that “Pops” will return for his seventh season at the mic.

The Thunder Bay Border Cats announced today that Joel Barta will replace Bobby Meier as the team’s field manager for the 2009 season. Meier, who took over from Devin McIntosh in October, was unable to fulfill his commitment after accepting a full time position in Las Vegas, NV.