| Friday, June 5, 2009 For Immediate Release |
Contact: Jesse Goldberg-Strassler ( 517) 485-4500 ext. 233 |
Lugnuts' Alvarez, Van Kirk named Midwest League All-Stars
BELOIT, Wis. – Lansing Lugnuts outfielder Brian Van Kirk and starting pitcher Henderson Alvarez have been named to the Eastern Division All-Star Team, the Midwest League announced today, and will play in the 2009 Midwest League All-Star Game on Tuesday, June 23, in Clinton, Iowa.
Henderson Alvarez, 19, was the Lugnuts' 2009 Opening Day starter. In 10 starts, including a nine-inning complete game, the Venezuelan right-hander has posted a 4-4 record with a 3.00 ERA. Alvarez is scheduled to start tonight for the Lugnuts in their series finale at Fort Wayne.
Brian Van Kirk, 23, has a team-leading .296 batting average with eight home runs and 26 RBI in 40 games. The reigning Midwest League Batter of the Week, Van Kirk is currently tied for fifth in the league with a .535 slugging percentage.
"We are certainly excited to hear the news of Henderson and Brian making the All-Star team," said Lugnuts manager Clayton McCullough. "We wish them the best and know that they will represent us well in Clinton."
The Lugnuts return to Oldsmobile Park tomorrow, June 6, to open an eight-day, nine-game homestand against West Michigan and Great Lakes. Tickets are available for purchase at www.lansinglugnuts.com or via the Oldsmobile Park box office at (517) 485-4500.
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