Thursday, December 03, 2009 Faiola Says Farewell

Print Email RSS Share

Related Links

• Press Release

Avon, Oh - The Lake Erie Crushers are saddened to announce the retirement of pitcher Josh Faiola. The right-handed pitcher was an integral part of the Crushers’ Frontier League Championship season, spending time in the starting rotation before eventually finding a home as a middle reliever in the bullpen.

Faiola made ten starts in the Crushers pinstripes last season before moving to the bullpen where he ate up innings in relief. He finished the season with a record of 3-7 and an ERA of 5.57 in 72.2 innings on the mound. Although more than respectable, Faiola’s statistics do not give an accurate reflection of his contribution to the team and organization.

“Josh exemplified the character, integrity and professionalism we search for in Crushers players,” said Field Manager John Massarelli. “He took a mid-season demotion to the bullpen in July and became a valuable reliever down the stretch in our championship run. His leadership will be hard to replace.”

While Faiola’s on-field performance was noteworthy, it was his off-field living arrangement that captured national media attention this summer. The story of a professional baseball player living in at the Belvedere of Westlake, a local assisted living community, sparked interest from news outlets throughout the country, including ESPN’s E:60. The show followed Faiola through the ups and downs of the season, highlighting the residents of the Belvedere as well as the Crushers’ Championship season.

After a successful professional baseball career in the Baltimore Orioles’ farm system and a championship season with the Crushers, Faiola has decided to end his career on a high note. After the season, the Dartmouth graduate returned to Texas with his wife Allison, where he is currently substitute teaching while he looks for a full time job.

Although he is hanging up his cleats, Faiola is grateful for a memorable season, “The Crushers have the biggest home field advantage in the league because of their incredible fans. They were with us every step of the long road to our 2009 Frontier League Championship. The community, front office staff, host families, everyone at the Belvedere, the coaching staff and players made this a summer I will never forget. Thank you for a memorable final season!”

The Lake Erie Crushers, the 2009 Frontier League Champions, play ball at All Pro Freight Stadium, a 5,000 capacity stadium located in Avon, OH. Beginning in 2010, All Pro Freight Stadium will also be home to the Cleveland State University baseball team. The Frontier League is an independent baseball league with 12 teams operating throughout the Midwest. Season tickets for the 2010 season are on sale now! For more information on tickets, promotions and team news, visit the team website at www.LakeErieCrushers.com or call 440-934-3636.