The Mankato MoonDogs are proud to announce that three players have been selected to the 2004 Northwoods League All-Star game July 14th in Wausau, Wisconsin. They are pitchers Will Krout (Sonoma St.) and Kevin Dixon (MSU-Mankato) along with outfielder Ryan Chiarelli (Santa Clara).

Will Krout and Ryan Chiarelli will be returning to the All-Star game for a second year in a row, while it’s Kevin Dixon’s first trip.

Will Krout has proved once again this year that he is one of the best pitchers in the Northwoods League. Although his record doesn’t show it (3-3), his numbers do. Currently, Krout ranks third in the league with a miniscule 1.50 ERA, and his 48 innings pitched and 31 strikeouts lead the MoonDogs staff.

Kevin Dixon has become a rally killer for other opponents. In 12 relief appearances, Dixon has pitched 19.2 innings, allowing just 3 earned runs, while striking out a staggering 26 hitters and picking up 2 saves.

Ryan Chiarelli has been "Mr. Consistent" for the MoonDogs offense. His team leading 31 hits has enabled him to score 14 runs, as he continues to be a tough out for opponents at the top of the line-up. Chiarelli holds the MoonDogs single season record with 45 runs scored, which he set last year.

All-Star break is from Tuesday, July 13th to Thursday, July 15th. The Northwoods League will be back in action starting Friday, July 16th.