By Brian Schultz
The Winnipeg Goldeyes have signed right-handed pitcher Chad Benefield to the 2011 roster — the second addition to the Fish in recent days. Catcher Luis Alen was signed last week.
The 22-year-old Georgia native made his professional debut with Winnipeg last season, and went 1-3 with a 4.30 ERA in 29.1 innings throughout 23 games.
“He’s a solid rookie reliever,” manager Rick Forney said in a statement. “He was very consistent from the first day he stepped on the mound for the Goldeyes last year.”
Benefield played for the NCAA Division II University of South Carolina-Aiken Pacers before heading north. He led the team with eight saves during the 2011 collegiate season.
Prior to coming to Winnipeg, Benefield toed the rubber for the NCAA Division II University of South Carolina-Aiken Pacers. He led the Pacers with eight saves during the 2010 collegiate season.
Meanwhile, staff from the Goldeyes’ front office, including mascot Goldie, will be packing hampers at Winnipeg Harvest on Wednesday morning. The Winnipeg Goldeyes Field of Dreams Foundation will also be making a $1,000 donation to the food bank at that time.
