The Winnipeg Goldeyes have signed a familiar name to the roster.
Manager Rick Forney announced today the return of catcher Jeff DeSmidt. He will be in the line-up today when Winnipeg faces Kansas City in a double-header to conclude a three-game series in the Sunflower State.
Desmidt, 23, was originally signed to Winnipeg in November, but was dealt to St. Paul in April in a three-team deal that ultimately led to the signing of slugger Juan Diaz.
He arrives after beginning the year with St. Paul of the American Association, where he batted .167 in six games with the Saints.
Signed out of the University of Minnesota, DeSmidt batted .271 in 36 games last year for Winnipeg with three home runs and 12 runs batted in. After a sluggish start behind the plate, he finished third among all catchers with a .306 (11/36) caught stealing percentage after beginning the year 0/10.
There are now 21 players on the Goldeyes roster, 11 of whom are position players.
Meanwhile, pitcher Matt Davis and shortstop Wes Long were honoured Tuesday with Northern League awards, as Davis was named NL Pitcher of the Month for May and Long was named NL Player of the Month of May.
On Monday, pitcher Bear Bay was named NL Pitcher of the Week for May 25 to 31 while outfielder Kevin West was named NL Player of the Week for the same span of time.
Winnipeg returns to Canwest Park to open a seven-game homestand beginning Friday with the first of three games against Fargo-Moorhead. Tickets are still available at Ticketmaster.
