(Mankato, MN) — The Mankato MoonDogs Baseball Club, a member of the Northwoods League, is proud to announce the signing of infielder Brandon Crawford to their 2005 roster.
Crawford, a highly scouted national prospect, is currently a senior at Foothill High School (Pleasanton, CA), where as of May 3, 2005 he was hitting .410 with six home runs and 17 stolen bases. As one of the top college recruits in the country, Crawford has signed a national letter of intent to play for Coach John Savage at UCLA in the fall of 2005.
His performance at last summer’s Area Code Games in California helped earn him the distinction as one of the top ten infielders in the nation.
"Brandon is a smooth-swinging, left-handed hitting middle infielder who will bring athleticism and speed to our lineup,” MoonDogs head coach Robbie Huffstetler said.
As a junior in 2004, Crawford hit .452 with three home runs, 36 RBI and 17 stolen bases. Crawford was a first team all-league selection after leading the league in hits, doubles, stolen bases and runs scored. He was also given first team All-North Coast, and California All-State First Team honors.
As a sophomore, Crawford earned All-East Bay Athletic League honorable mention accolades while establishing a new school record for stolen bases.
"Brandon will be the first high school player the MoonDogs have signed in now our four year history. We are excited to have the opportunity to bring him here for the summer and give him a taste of some of the best in college baseball before he attends UCLA this fall,” MoonDogs general manager Kyle Mrozek said.
Crawford is the second MoonDogs player signed this season who has also signed a letter of intent to play at UCLA. Pitcher Tyson Brummett of Central Arizona is the other.
The MoonDogs home opener is set for June 6, 2005, against the St. Cloud River Bats. Opening night will feature Twins great Tony Oliva, free magnet schedules for all fans and a post-game fireworks extravaganza. Season tickets, group tickets, and single game tickets are all available at the MoonDogs Ticket Office. Call 507-625-7047 or check out www.mankatomoondogs.com for more information on all of the events the MoonDogs have planned for the 2005 season.
