“Big roster moves for the Crushers include a trade, a retirement and the acquisition of two new pitchers”

Avon, OH—The Lake Erie Crushers have traded fan favorite, #40 Gordon Gronkowski to the Worcester Tornados of the Cam-Am League for a player to be named later. Gronkowski was one of the first players signed by the Crushers last spring and was a major contributor in the team’s championship first season.

A 2009 Frontier League All-Star, Gronkowski filled the role of designated hitter for a majority of the season. In 88 games played, he batted .305 and led the team in home runs (19) and RBI (79). Off the field, Gronkowski was known as the “Mayor of the Freight” by the fans. For his community service, the league recognized Gronkowski after the season with the Fran Riordan Citizenship Award.

"Gordie is a guy who will not only be hard to replace in the middle of our lineup, but I will miss his clubhouse presence,” said Field Manager John Massarelli. “He helped create the chemistry we needed to win the championship. We appreciate Gordie’s contribution to the team, but are pleased that with this trade he will be able to be closer to his family and brother.”

Gronkowski’s brother Rob, a stand out tight-end out of Arizona State University, was drafted by the New England Patriots this past week in the 2010 NFL draft.

In addition to losing Gronkowski in the line-up, the Crushers will also be without starting pitcher, Brent Lysander this season. After a successful 2009 campaign on the mound, Lysander has decided to retire from professional baseball to pursue other career opportunities. The right-handed pitcher recorded nine wins and three losses for the Crushers last season, posting an ERA of 4.75. In 19 games started, Lysander threw 57 strikeouts and gave up only 39 walks. He also pitched one complete game.

“Lysander will be another difficult player to replace. He was solid starter in our rotation last summer and we will need some of our new players to step in and fill that role,” said Massarelli.

In other roster moves, the Crushers have added two new pitchers to the staff. Righty Phil Rummel joins the team after playing the 2008 and 2009 seasons in the Houston Astros organization. Billy Kitchen, another right hander, played the 2009 season in the Seattle Mariners organization with their Arizona rookie league team.

The Lake Erie Crushers, the 2009 Frontier League Champions, play ball at All Pro Freight 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.