(Mankato, MN) — The Mankato MoonDogs Baseball Club, a member of the Northwoods League, is proud to announce the signing of Ryan Addison of Young Harris Junior College and Robert Rodebaugh of Presbyterian College to their 2005 roster.
Addison (6’0” 190 lbs.) comes to the MoonDogs via Young Harris Junior College where he has a .444 batting average over his last 10 games. On a tear as of late, Addison has knocked in at least one RBI in each of his last nine games for the Mountain Lions.
No less a threat on the base paths, Addison has already swiped sixteen bases on the season. His speed also transfers well to the outfield, allowing him to camp under fly balls and track down shots to the gap. While playing for Pope High School, Addison was awarded the Gold Glove Award and Team MVP honors, while hitting .321 during his senior season.
"Ryan will definitely be a weapon for us, both at the plate and in the field,” general manager Kyle Mrozek said. "His speed will generate runs for us offensively, while taking runs away defensively.”
"Addison is going to be one of our main guys in the outfield,” said MoonDogs head coach Robbie Huffstetler. "He brings a lot of things to the table. He can play small game, run well and can also bring some power to the plate. He also has a cannon for an arm.”
Rodebaugh, (6’1” 195 lbs.) now in his sophomore year with the Presbyterian College Blue Hose, has shown his ability to consistently hit very well. In 2004, Rodebaugh lead the team with a .409 batting average, while collecting 26 RBI as a freshman. He also led both the team and the South Atlantic Conference in OBP (.518).
This season he has further shown his talent, hitting .305 while leading the team in RBI (17), home runs (4) and walks (12). Rodebaugh earned All County honors and was selected as a Georgia All-Star during his senior year at Sprayberry High School.
"We expect to have Rodebaugh catch for us, as well as play some first base and DH,” said coach Huffstetler. "He also brings a much needed left handed bat to our lineup.”
The MoonDogs Home Opener is set for June 6, 2005, against the division rival St. Cloud River Bats. Season and group tickets are on sale now with single game tickets available May 7. Call the MoonDogs Ticket Office at 507-625-7047 or check out www.mankatomoondogs.com for more information.