(Mankato, MN)–The Mankato MoonDogs Baseball Club, a member of the Northwoods League, is proud to announce signing of two sophomores from the University of California, Riverside. Left-handed pitcher Jose Shaw and infielder Brian Steinmeyer have both committed to play for the MoonDogs in 2004.

With returning MoonDogs All-Star Aaron Grant also making the trip to Mankato for the summer, the Highlanders now have three teammates playing for the MoonDogs.

Shaw is a 6’0, 190 lbs., crafty lefty who saw limited action in his freshman season, after red-shirting in 2002 and not being cleared to play until April 1, 2003, when he was fully recovered from his Tommy John surgery. This season, Shaw has posted a 3-2 record and 2.09 ERA.

In his 38+ innings this year, Shaw has shown masterful control allowing only 9 walks while sending 42 batters back to the bench courtesy of the whiff. On March 27, Shaw had a career high 13 strike outs against the University of Hawaii-Hilo for his first win of the season. Then on April 20, Shaw struck out 12 and at one point retired 17 consecutive Rebels from UNLV.

"I’m excited to see what he can really do this season,” said MoonDogs coach Brad Rupert. "He’s got an excellent curve and can spot his fastball in and out. His abilities will allow me to have some fun with match ups in close games this summer.”

Steinmeyer, hailing from Corona, CA, and weighing in at 6’1” 195 lbs., is seeing the ball extremely well for the Highlanders. Ranked 5th on team with a .305 average, he has 13 doubles, 2 homeruns and has played and started in 45 games this year.

On April 24, Steinmeyer tied a school record going 6-6 on the day, while collecting 6 RBI. He then continued his on base streak to 9 consecutive at bats in the following game, before being retired in the 7th inning.

As a freshman in 2003, Steinmeyer hit .243 and also started in two games for UCR at the West Regional Tournament at Stanford, where he hit his first collegiate homerun.

"Brian is a strong kid who is going to anchor our defense this year at short. Pip [Jeremiah Piepkorn] left some big shoes to fill but I think Brian is definitely up to the task,” Rupert said.

The MoonDogs open their season on June 2nd against the Alexandria Beetles. Single game and season tickets are still available. Come out Opening Night to meet former Twins great Franky "Sweet Music” Viola, or check out Opening Night Part II on June 7th to meet former Yankee and best-selling baseball author Jim Bouton. Call the MoonDogs ticket office at 507-625-7047 or check out www.mankatomoondogs.com for any of your MoonDogs needs.