Entering the 2010 NYCBL season 60 Alumni found themselves on opening day Minor League rosters and had three players on Triple-A roster. The NYCBL continues the growing trend of talent coming from its players as 42 players were taken in the 2009 draft. Eight former players are currently listed on Major League rosters; Tim Hudson, Dallas Braden, Rajai Davis, Brendan Harris, Brad Lidge, John McDonald, Jason Motte and Hunter Pence.

The 2010 MLB entry draft saw the second largest number drafted as 36 former and current NYCBL players had their names called as Mel Rojas Jr. was taken by the Pittsburg Pirates with the 84th pick in round 3. Chris Bisson was selected with the 124th pick in the 4th round by the San Diego Padres. The Glens Falls Golden Eagles saw the highest number of former players go through the draft as eight were selected. The Amsterdam Mohawks followed right behind with seven former players being drafted.

Former Elmira Pioneer Mike Drowne was taken in the 28th round by the Los Angeles Dodgers. Drowne was part of the 2009 squad and was selected to participate in the Future’s Game that showcased players on the rise in Collegiate Baseball. Former Pioneer Rye Davis was also selected in the draft by the Cleveland Indians in round 36. Davis was a pitcher on the 2008 squad.

The NYCBL Pioneers currently have six former players that are at the next level with 4 in Affiliated Leagues and two in Independent Leagues. Mike Drowne is playing in the Arizona League with AZL Dodgers; Wade Gaynor is playing in the Class-A Midwest League with the West Michigan Whitecaps (Tigers); Shane Wolf is a member of the Lancaster JetHawks (Astros) in the Advanced-A California League; Cody Eppley is playing for the Frisco RoughRiders (Rangers) in the Double-A Texas League.

Greg Lane and Dominic DiRicco are in Independent Basball as Lane plays in the American Association with the Lincoln Salt Dogs. Dominic DiRicco plays for the Rio Grande Valley White Wings of the United Baseball League.

The Pioneers return to Dunn Field to begin a five game home stand starting Wednesday July 14th. Thursday July 15th is Thirsty Thursday, all drinks are $1. Fantastic Friday, July 16th, there will be a fireworks display presented by the City of Elmira. Spectacular Saturday, July 17th, is Hall of Fame invocation night, when “lucky fan” giveaways include an HDTV, DVD player and the “Allegiant Air weekend vacation” in Orlando.

For ticket information or team news visit the Pioneers on the web at www.elmirapioneers.com or call 607-734-2690.

This Summer Have Some Fun at Dunn!