TWO EARLY PRESENTS FOR CRUSHERS

Avon - Gifts came early for the Lake Erie Crushers this holiday season with the acquisition of two talented pitchers, rookie Michael Raymond and former Tampa Bay Rays farm hand, Travis Risser.

Risser began his professional career in 2007 with the Washington Wild Things of the Frontier League. The right-handed reliever appeared in 25 games for manager John Massarelli, now the Crushers’ field manager. Risser recorded an ERA of 1.09 and accumulated six saves in 49.2 innings. Risser's contract was bought out by the Tampa Bay Rays after the season. He started the 2008 season with the Hudson Valley Renegades of the New York Penn League, the Rays’ low “A” team, before being promoted to the high “A” Columbus Catfish. Combined, Risser appeared in 34 games in relief, posting a 3.14 ERA in 34 innings.

Michael Raymond joins the Crushers after an impressive collegiate career at Belmont Abbey College. As a senior, the right-handed pitcher made 13 starts, recorded one complete game and posted an ERA of 3.71 in 70.1 innings of work. He allowed only 29 earned runs and 25 walks, while striking out 53 batters. Raymond also played key roles in Belmont Abbeys highest national finish in school history, as well as the school’s first Division II College World Series appearance. Raymond and the Abbey finished third in the eight-team World Series, after being knocked off by eventual national champions Lynn. Raymond finished his college career on a high note, pitching 8 shutout innings and striking out a career hig h 13 batters.

According to Field Manager John Massarelli, “Travis will bring a bulldog type attitude to the mound that the Crusher fans will love. We’re going to put him into our rotation and let him eat up some innings. Risser and Raymond will add new blood to the pitching staff and should keep everyone on their toes during spring training.”

The Lake Erie Crushers, the 2009 Frontier League Champions, play ball at All Pro Freight Stadium, a 5,000 capacity stadium located in Avon, OH. Season tickets for the 2010 season are on sale now! For more information on tickets, promotions and team news, visit the team website at www.LakeErieCrushers.com or call 440-934-3636.