The Winnipeg Goldeyes have signed left-handed pitcher Joel Bender and right-handed pitcher Landon Hughes to the 2019 roster.
Bender posted a 1.59 ERA in 19 relief appearances last season for the Double-A Southern League’s Pensacola Blue Wahoos. The Cincinnati, Ohio native struck out 26 batters in 28.1 innings, while allowing just six walks and two home runs.
Bender was originally drafted by the Reds in the 27th round in 2010 out of Oak Hills High School in Cincinnati, and is entering his eighth season of professional baseball. The left-hander has finished with an ERA of 3.79 or lower five times, and owns a career 21 percent strikeout rate.
“I’m pleased to announce the addition of Joel and Landon,” said Goldeyes’ manager Rick Forney.
“Joel can start or relieve, while Landon will work exclusively out of our bullpen. These are two high-quality arms that will certainly increase the overall depth of our pitching staff.”
The Goldeyes now have 22 players under contract for the 2019 season.
— With files from the Winnipeg Goldeyes
