MANKATO, Minn.–The Mankato MoonDogs Baseball Club, a member of the Northwoods League, is pleased to announce the commitment of infielders Trey Nielson, Drew Stankiewicz and catcher, Zach Luevanos to play for the MoonDogs in the 2012 season.

Nielson, a six-foot-two-inch, 195-pound, sophomore of The University of Utah, was drafted out of high school in the 2010 MLB draft during the 42nd round by the Chicago Cubs. In his freshman season with the Ute’s Nielson was second on the team in homeruns with nine. He was also named the 2011 Louisville Slugger Freshman All-American recipient. In 2012, Nielson is currently hitting .232.

"Trey holds a big frame for third base which will be an advantage for him to solidify his position,” said Field Manager Mike Orchard.

In the 2011 MLB draft, Stankiewicz, a five-foot-10-inch, 185-pound Freshman of Arizona State University was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the 4oth round. Known to have "quick field hands” and a "flashy glove,” Stankiewicz completed his high school career boasting a .672 slugging percentage with seven homeruns. In his first season with the Sun Devils, Stankiewicz is hitting .269.

"Drew is an exceptional player that can play multiple skilled positions,” said Orchard. "He has a lot of potential to do well for us.”

Luevanos, a five-foot-nine-inch, 208-pound junior of Lamar University is currently hitting .214 in his first season with the Cardinals. Before attending LU, the Corpus Christi, Texas native led Seminole State College (Okla.) in RBIs with 52 and held a .343 batting average.

"Zach moves well behind the plate, he is a hard-nosed catcher that will get the job done,” said Orchard.

The MoonDogs home opener is scheduled for Friday, June 1 at 7:05 p.m. against the St. Cloud Rox at Franklin Rogers Park. Season and single game tickets are now on sale at the MoonDogs office located at 1221 Caledonia Street. For more information, visit our website www.mankatomoondogs.com or call the MoonDogs office at 507-625-7047.