(Mankato, MN)–The Mankato MoonDogs Baseball Club, a member of the Northwoods League, is proud to announce the return of an infielder and the signing of two new players for 2008. Shortstop Bobby Munoz from St. Leo University (Florida) will return for his second season while second baseman Tony Strazzara from the University of San Diego and infielder Matthew Prokopowicz from Hofstra have all committed to play for the MoonDogs this summer.
Munoz, a 5’11” 185 lb. junior, began the season on a torrid pace and has continued to dominate offensively. In 47 games played, Munoz either leads the team or ranks among the top three in numerous offensive categories that includes a .392 batting average. On February 25, 2008, Munoz was named Sunshine State Conference Player of the Week posting a .556 average, one home run, one double, one triple, six runs, and eight RBI for the week.
"With having one season in the league already, Bobby will be a huge asset to have back,” said MoonDogs field manager Jason Nell. "He did quite well last season before he had to leave early. He’s a very smart player and someone we can count on to play either second base or shortstop.”
Strazzara, a 5’11” 180 lb. freshman, is very versatile in the field having started 21 games at second base, third base, and outfield this season for the Toreros, who currently rank eighth in Baseball America’s Top 25 Poll. Thus far, he has batted .301 with 13 runs, 22 hits, four doubles, and 15 RBI. Before joining the Toreros, he was a senior at Brophy Prep in Scottsdale, Arizona, where he was teammates with 2007 MoonDog Sean Nicol. In his senior season at Brophy Prep, Strazzara hit .435 and helped lead his team to the state runner-up championship.
"Tony comes from an outstanding program and one where we have had success with Sean Nicol last season,” said MoonDogs field manager Jason Nell. "We’re extremely excited about what Tony can bring with his speed and defense.”
Prokopowicz, a 6’0” 205 lb. sophomore, has started all 47 games at third base for the Pride this season.
After an outstanding freshman campaign, he hasn’t missed a beat in 2008. He leads the team in batting average (.324), hits (55), home runs (7), RBI (34), and total bases (83). He also ranks third in runs (32) and doubles (7).
"Matt is someone who comes highly recommended not only by his coaches, but numerous coaches in the Colonial Athletic Association,” said MoonDogs field Manager Jason Nell. "Not only does he have a ton of ability, but someone who can produce in the middle of our lineup and play anywhere in the infield.”
During his freshman season, Prokopowicz led Hofstra with a .416 batting average, 82 hits, seven home runs, and 52 RBI. He was named to Freshman All-America teams by Baseball America, Collegiate Baseball, and Ping! Baseball. He was also the Colonial Athletic Association Rookie of the Year and a second-team All-Colonial Athletic Association selection.
The MoonDogs Home Opener is set for Friday, May 30 against the Rochester Honkers at 7:05 PM. Single game tickets will go on sale Saturday, May 10 at 10:00 AM. To be part of all the MoonDogs action this summer, season tickets are on sale now as well as group and hospitality tickets. For more information go to www.mankatomoondogs.com or call the MoonDogs Ticket Office at 507-625-7047.
