March 3, 2010

(Willmar, MN) – The Willmar Stingers of the Northwoods League announced today the signing of three more players to its 2010 inaugural team roster, which begins this June.  Infielder Matt Serna (University of Illinois of Chicago), infielder Carlos Leyva (California State University, Dominguez Hills) and pitcher Michael Jahns (Northwestern) have signed contracts to play in Willmar this summer.

Serna, a junior infielder/outfielder for the Flames, is leading the team with a .400 batting average through the first seven games.   Serna was named Horizon League Player of the Week for the period of Feb 14-21.  Serna’s eight hits, two doubles, one triple and his six RBI performance earned him the award.  Serna, originally from Arlington Heights, Ill also was named Horizon League Network’s People’s Choice Award winner for his outstanding play.  Serna played his last two seasons at Lincoln College in Lincoln, Ill where he earned Honorable Mention All-American, All-Region First Team, All-District First Team and All-Midwest Athletic Conference First Team selection.

Carlos Leyva, a junior infielder from Los Angeles, was named an NCCA All-American-Honorable Mention for his record setting sophomore year at Dominguez Hills.  Leyva hit .394, with 95 hits, 68 runs scored and his 30 of 36 stolen bases led his team last season.

\”Leyva and Serna’s experience and leadership as upperclassman will be a tremendous asset for our club this season,\” said Stingers first year field manager Matt Hollod.  \”They will both play a big role for us offensively and defensively.\”

Michael Jahns, sophomore right handed pitcher, led the Wildcats with a team best 3.56 ERA in 30.1 innings pitched last season as a freshman.  Originally from Kihei, Hawaii, Jahns was a two time all-state selection at St. Anthony high school where Philadelphia Phillies outfielder Shane Victorino also attended.  Last summer, Jahns pitched in the Hawaii Collegiate Baseball League where he earned a 3-1 record with 27.2 innings pitched and 26 strikeouts.

Both Hollod and the front office will continue to put together the roster as the home-opener approaches on Thursday, June 3.  The Stingers will host the St. Cloud River Bats and will open the 2010 season with a five-game home stand.  Season tickets for the 2010 season are jut $99 as an introductory rate until March 15.  Regular prices for season tickets are $149 for reserved seat backs and $169 for box seat season tickets. For more information please call 320-222-2010.